• Solvent abuse is responsible for 70 deaths per year, the vast majority of which involve people under the age of 20. Young people are at greatest risk sometimes occurring during the first time.
• The most common abusers of solvents are males aged between 11 and 16. They inhale the solvents from glues and adhesives, paint and petroleum products, lighter fluid, dry cleaning fluids, aerosol sprays, surgical spirit and cleaners.
• An abuser appears dazed and unsteady with slurred speech, their behaviour becomes unpredictable. This may develop into vomiting, choking and unconsciousness.
• With solvent abuse there is no evidence of physical dependency but psychological dependency can occur.
• See also Lighter Refills (Containing Butane).

Legislation

• Intoxicating Substances (Supply) Act 1985

Age Restriction

A person must be 18 years or older to buy an intoxicating substance.

Offences

The above legislation makes it illegal:

• To sell an intoxicating substance or solvent, to a person who he knows, or has reasonable cause to believe to be under 18. (N.B. It only appears to be an offence to sell intoxicating substances to persons under the age of 18 if they are buying for the purpose of inhaling them to become intoxicated.)
• To sell an intoxicating substance or solvent, to a person whom he knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, is acting on behalf of a person under 18.
• To sell an intoxicating substance or solvent, to any person whom he knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, that the substance or its fumes are likely to be inhaled for the purpose of causing intoxication.

Maximum Penalties

• £5,000 Fine and/or
• Up to 6 months imprisonment

Useful Links
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