Medical Cannabis User Fears Workplace Stigma Despite Prescription

As of November 16, 2025, the use of medical cannabis in the UK has become more widespread, with an estimated tens of thousands of people holding private prescriptions. However, many patients like 41-year-old Jon Leeder from Caerphilly, Wales, still struggle with the stigma associated with cannabis use.

Leeder, who uses medical cannabis to manage his anxiety, was initially nervous about telling his coworkers that he takes the drug daily. He worried they might perceive him as a "lazy stoner" rather than someone using a legitimate medication. Leeder's concerns reflect a broader challenge faced by medical cannabis patients, who often find themselves having to justify their use of the drug, even with a valid prescription.

Beyond the workplace, patients also face difficulties in other areas of their lives. Some have been stopped by police or denied access to their medication in certain settings, such as hospitals. One patient, Kat Turner, even received a complaint from a neighbor about the smell of cannabis coming from her flat. These incidents highlight the ongoing legal and social hurdles that medical cannabis users must navigate.

Despite these challenges, the private cannabis industry in the UK has continued to grow. In July 2024, there were more than 50,000 private cannabis prescriptions, and this number is expected to have increased since then. As the use of medical cannabis becomes more mainstream, patients and healthcare providers alike hope to see greater understanding and acceptance of this treatment option.