How Far Have We Come?

This November marks seven years since medical cannabis was legalised in the UK, and with it comes a moment to pause and reflect. As we enter Medical Cannabis Awareness Month, it is worth asking one simple question: how far have we really come?

A Promise of Hope in 2018

When the law changed in November 2018, it was seen as a breakthrough moment. After years of campaigning, families of children with treatment-resistant epilepsy and patients living with chronic conditions finally had hope that legal access to cannabis-based medicines was possible.

At the time, the UK Government allowed doctors on the General Medical Council’s Specialist Register to prescribe cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs). It was a historic step that promised a fairer, more compassionate healthcare system.

The Reality of Access

Seven years later, that promise has only been partly fulfilled. While private clinics now support over 60,000 patients, access on the NHS remains limited to a small number of conditions such as severe epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

For thousands of patients with chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, and other complex conditions, access is still out of reach. The cost of private prescriptions continues to be a major barrier, and many clinicians remain hesitant to prescribe due to restrictive national guidance.

Shifting Attitudes and Growing Awareness

Despite these challenges, progress is undeniable. Public understanding has grown rapidly. Medical cannabis is no longer a taboo subject - it is part of open discussions in Parliament, among healthcare professionals, and in everyday life.

Research has expanded, new products are being developed under strict quality standards, and more clinicians are receiving training in cannabinoid medicine. Patient-led organisations, advocacy groups, and trade bodies such as the Cannabis Trades Association (CTA) have played a vital role in promoting balanced education and evidence-based reform.

The Role of the CTA

Since its formation, the CTA has been at the heart of this progress. The Association continues to support members across the industry, engage with policymakers, and advocate for fair regulation.

Through campaigns such as #MedCanAwareness, #SafeSupply, and continued work with Parliament, the CTA highlights the importance of responsible access, scientific understanding, and patient safety.

By collaborating with medical experts, researchers, and industry leaders, the CTA helps ensure that policy and practice move forward together.

Looking Ahead

As we mark Medical Cannabis Awareness Month 2025, there is much to celebrate and still much to do. Awareness is no longer the challenge; action is.

To truly deliver on the promise made in 2018, the UK must continue to support clinical education, simplify patient access pathways, and ensure that evidence from real-world use informs future guidance.

Progress takes time, but with continued collaboration and informed advocacy, the UK can become a leader in safe, regulated, and compassionate medical cannabis access.

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