Benefits claimants handed discounts on 'super-strength' Cannabis for mental health conditions

On 10 January 2026, the UK saw a surge in benefits claimants receiving discounted prescriptions for “super‑strength” cannabis. Specialist pharmacies nationwide are offering close to 10,000 distinct cannabis products, covering conditions such as anxiety and depression. The policy, funded through state benefits, provides significant price reductions for eligible claimants. However, medical experts warn about heightened risks of mental‑health complications, citing limited long‑term safety data. Critics argue that the policy may undermine evidence‑based care and create dependency risks. Supporters claim that patients have gained relief when other treatments fail. The debate centers on balancing accessibility with patient safety in a rapidly expanding cannabis market.