Children in drug and alcohol treatment in Hampshire

Children under 14 in Hampshire are being drawn into drug use, as new figures reveal a sharp rise in those needing treatment.

Data shows that 175 children were receiving drug treatment in the county in 2024/25, an increase of 20 cases in a single year. In 2023/24, the figure stood at 155.

Around 100 of the children in treatment were aged 15 or under, with 20 recorded as being under the age of 14.

Many were still in primary or early secondary school, already facing issues more commonly associated with adulthood.

Boys remain more affected than girls, with 110 males in treatment compared with 70 females.

Cannabis was by far the most common substance, linked to 155 cases. However, alcohol continues to play a significant role, featuring in 55 cases.
Other substances involved recorded include ketamine (25), ecstasy (15), cocaine (10) and benzodiazepines (5) — all of which carry serious risks for young people.

A Hampshire County Council spokesperson said substance misuse is often linked to child criminal exploitation.

The spokesperson said: “Our specialist multi-agency Willow team works jointly with partner agencies across health, education and the Police to disrupt exploitative networks, protect vulnerable children, and ensure they and their families receive appropriate support across respective services.”

They added that early engagement in treatment is a “protective factor”, helping to reduce harm and improve outcomes for young people.

However, the effects are also being felt in schools across the county. In the same year, 132 pupils in secondary schools were excluded, while 23,650 school suspensions were issued across Hampshire.

These included children in primary schools, secondary schools and 55 pupils attending special schools.

In that aspect, the council said that while the number of children receiving drug treatment has increased, national survey data shows overall drug use among secondary school pupils has fallen since 2021.

They added: “This suggests that those who do need support are being identified and supported appropriately. Although there has been a small increase in younger children (under 14) receiving treatment, they represent fewer than 10 per cent of cases, in line with national trends.”

In Southampton, 30 children accessed drug and alcohol treatment in 2024/25, including 10 aged 15 or under and five under the age of 14.

In the same year, 5,879 school suspensions were issued in Southampton, two of them in primary schools and 163 in secondary schools.

The county council previously said public health services are continuing to respond through Hampshire 24/7, which provides treatment and recovery services for young people and their families.

Residents concerned about their own drinking, or that of a child, are also encouraged to seek advice through services such as Rethink Your Drink, self-referral treatment options, or by speaking to a GP.

Support for parents and families is also available through Parent Support Link (PSL).

Anyone concerned that a child may be at risk due to substance misuse is urged to contact Hampshire Children’s Services.