Attempts made to sell drugs including LSD and ecstasy in South Yorkshire schools

And dozens of cases of possession of drugs were recorded in schools in 2019, with figures up on the previous year.

Figures released under the Freedom of Information Act reveal that police crime figures for 2019 included a case of possession with intent to supply LSD, a case of possession with intent to supply cannabis, and an incident of supplying or offering to supply MDMA, the drug commonly called ecstasy.

In total, the number of drug related crimes recorded at schools across South Yorkshire was 38, with all the rest involving possession of drugs. It was an increase from 2018, when 27 incidents were recorded by officers.

Police say drugs offences in schools in the county are ‘extremely low’

Last year also saw:

> 30 incidents of possession of cannabis.

> A case of possession of cocaine

> One report of possession of ketamine.

> Two cases of possession of unspecified drugs.

The figures do not reveal the individual schools where the complaints were made.

South Yorkshire Police issued a statement on the figures, which also exlained how they are trying to deal with the issue.

They said the number of drug related offences recorded within schools remained extremely low and added that where incidents were reported to them, the force would always take appropriate and swift action.

The statement added: “We work hard to maintain positive relationships with schools and academies across South Yorkshire and we are always looking for new ways to engage with pupils and staff.

“We have dedicated Children and Young Persons Officers (CYPOs) designated to schools and they play a vital role in building links and addressing issues that might arise. They also provide a direct and consistent point of contact for headteachers, members of staff and pupils.“Our Neighbourhood Policing Teams also work closely with local schools, delivering inputs in both primary and secondary schools around a range of issues, including drugs, online safety and knife crime.“We would always encourage anyone with any concerns about drug use or supply to contact us.”