# Travel >> Destinations >> United Kingdom

Is Glue Sniffing Illegal in the UK? The Legal Landscape of Volatile Substance Abuse

Glue sniffing (volatile substance abuse) is not a specific criminal offense in itself in the UK. However, a web of laws criminalizes the supply, consequences, and public disorder arising from it.

What the Law Covers

1. Supply Offenses (Psychoactive Substances Act 2016)

It is illegal to produce, supply, offer to supply, possess with intent to supply, import, or export any "psychoactive substance" (defined as affecting mental functioning/emotional state by stimulating/depressing the CNS) for human consumption.
This covers solvents, gases, glues, aerosols, poppers (alkyl nitrites—exempted for legitimate uses).
Penalty: Up to 7 years imprisonment (indictment); 12 months (summary).
Crucial: Retailers selling glue/paint to adults for legitimate use (DIY) are not committing an offense unless they know or suspect the buyer intends inhalation.

2. Intoxication-Led Offenses (Public Order / Safety)

Public Order Act 1986: Section 5 – harassment, alarm, distress (drunk/disorderly in public). Section 4 – fear/provocation of violence.
Road Traffic Act 1988: Driving/attempting to drive while unfit through drugs (includes solvents). Mandatory 12-month ban, unlimited fine, up to 6 months prison.
Child Protection: Police can remove a child (<18) found sniffing to a place of safety (Children Act 1989).

3. Retail Restrictions (Offensive Weapons Act 2019 / Cigarette Lighter Refill (Safety) Regulations 1999)

Illegal to sell butane lighter refills to under-18s.
Voluntary retailer codes (e.g., "Think 25") restrict sales of solvents/glues to minors.

Public Health Approach

The UK treats volatile substance abuse (VSA) primarily as a health and safeguarding issue. VSA mortality peaked in the 1990s (~100 deaths/year); now ~20–30/year (ONS). Services focus on youth outreach, education, and treatment (e.g., Re-Solv charity).