Alcohol, drugs and harm reduction support for students

Updated on: 27 August 2026

Supporting you to stay safe and well.

The University of St Andrews is committed to fostering a community of care, respect, and wellbeing. We recognise that students may encounter alcohol or other substances during their time at university, and we want you to have the knowledge and support to make informed, responsible choices.

While the University does not condone illegal or harmful substance use, our priority is your safety, as well as the safety of the wider community. We take a harm reduction approach, which means providing clear information, encouraging safer behaviours, and supporting you without judgement.

Remember:

  • You are not alone.
  • Support is available at any time, don’t wait until things feel serious.
  • Looking after yourself and others is part of being in the St Andrews community.

Our Harm Reduction Commitment

We have adopted a University-wide Student Substance Use Harm Reduction Commitment, which outlines how we support students and promote wellbeing across our community.

Our approach focuses on:

  • supporting students affected by substance use
  • providing accurate information about risks and harm
  • encouraging help-seeking for yourself or others
  • promoting responsible behaviour within the University and wider community
  • offering respectful, and non-judgemental support

What harm reduction means at St Andrews

  • Providing clear, factual information about alcohol and drugs
  • Helping you understand the potential effects and risks of substance use
  • Supporting safer choices and decision-making
  • Encouraging you to look after yourself and others
  • Helping you access advice and support

Getting help and support

You can seek support at any time, whether you are concerned about your own substance use or someone else’s.

Need help now?

See the contact information for students in an emergency, crisis or urgent situation.

If you are concerned about yourself

  • Access advice and support through Student Services. You can get in touch using the online enquiry form.
  • Speak to a local or national specialist support provider.
  • Remember, you do not need to be in crisis to ask for help.

If you are worried about someone else

  • Encourage them to seek support.
  • Reach out to Student Services using the online enquiry form or submit an anonymous concern through Report and Support to share your concerns with the University.
  • In urgent situations where you or others are in immediate danger, call the emergency services by dialling 999.

The University’s harm reduction approach balances support with clear expectations. As a student at the University of St Andrews you are expected to:

  • look after your own health, safety and wellbeing, and that of others
  • make informed decisions using available information and support
  • seek help if you are concerned about substance use
  • be mindful of your behaviour and its impact on others
  • act in line with University values, the Student Conduct Policy, and the Honour Code

It is important to remember that:

If concerns arise, you will continue to be supported throughout your time at the University.

Students on professionally regulated courses

If you are studying on a course linked to a professional or statutory body, your safety and wellbeing remain the priority.

Any concerns will be considered under the University’s Fitness to Practise Policy on an individual basis. We will consider your specific circumstances and the regulations of the course you are studying. Support is always available, and seeking help is encouraged.

More information and resources

Links to external sites and information

The University is not liable for external web content and may not be aware when this content is changed or removed.