As the number of medicinal cannabis patients continues to rise here in Britain and internationally, a new charity, CannCare, has launched to uphold and champion the rights of those facing discrimination for consuming their prescribed medication.
Manchester-based CannCare provides help, support, and information to CBPM (cannabis-based products for medicinal use) patients when they encounter issues with public bodies – such as housing associations, local councils, and law enforcement – and private enterprises, like employers.
“Many people still aren’t aware that medicinal cannabis has been legal here in the UK for six and a half years,” said CannCare CEO and founder, Callum Jones. “As a result, it’s increasingly common for patients to experience discrimination from those who believe that they’re breaking the law.
“We’ve seen this happen firsthand. It can be an incredibly stressful experience for patients. We want to see a future where all CBPM patients in the UK can confidently take their prescription medication without fear of harassment, prosecution, or persecution.”
Already the CannCare team has successfully resolved a landmark case involving a patient from West Sussex who was threatened with eviction from her rental property for consuming medicinal cannabis.
“We won’t shy away from taking affirmative action when a patient we’re working with is being unfairly stigmatised for consuming medicinal cannabis,” said Jones.
Councillor Andrew Walters Appointed Trustee
As well as championing the rights of medicinal cannabis patients in the UK, CannCare aims to broaden public awareness of medicinal cannabis’ availability; outlining its efficacy, legal status, and positive impact.
As part of these efforts, and to bolster the CannCare team, five trustees have been appointed to the board – including Salford councillor and medicinal cannabis advocate, Cllr Andrew Walters.
“We aim to bring patients, healthcare professionals, and the public together to promote awareness and understanding of medicinal cannabis,” said Cllr Walters. “Plant-based medicines, like CBPMs, can make a massive difference to a patient’s overall quality of life. The only thing getting in the way is stigma. This is why education and information will remain key.”
CannCare is also a member of the UK’s Cannabis Industry Council and plans a number of patient outreach initiatives across the UK in coming months.
The charity is also committed to creating a community for UK medicinal cannabis patients; both on and offline; through a digital community platform and in-person events.
CBPM patients, carers, and supporters can join CannCare for free or can choose to pay a voluntary donation fee.
