Are we Prepared? Academic readiness to recognise and respond to drug related criminal exploitation in healthcare education: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Hincks, T ORCID: 0009-0005-4428-3326, Gee, R, Germain, J ORCID: 0000-0002-9890-3798, Hanlon, C ORCID: 0000-0003-2684-0123, Edwards, K, Howard, R, Ryan, N and Bifarin, O ORCID: 0000-0002-8247-2508 Are we Prepared? Academic readiness to recognise and respond to drug related criminal exploitation in healthcare education: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study. Collegian. ISSN 1322-7696 (Accepted)

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Abstract

Background: 
Drug exploitation is a concern in UK higher education. While healthcare academic staff are well-placed to support at-risk students, little is known about their knowledge, preparedness or wider support.

Purpose: 
Explore healthcare academic staff’s knowledge, and practices regarding drug related criminal exploitation.

Method: 
An online survey collected a combination of qualitative and quantitative data (N=89). Descriptive statistical analysis and content analysis was used. The survey was distributed to health based academic staff at a University in England.

Findings: 
Participants (87%) believed it was their role to support students at risk of drug exploitation, yet only 17% had received training and 6% were aware of university policy. There was support for training, clearer referral guidance, and the integration of drug related criminal exploitation content into curricula.

Discussion: 
Academic staff are motivated but underprepared to respond to drug related criminal exploitation. Universities must implement structured training, safeguarding policies, and curricular integration.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	1110 Nursing; Nursing; 3901 Curriculum and pedagogy; 4204 Midwifery; 4205 Nursing
Subjects:	L Education > LC Special aspects of education R Medicine > R Medicine (General) R Medicine > RT Nursing
Divisions:	Nursing and Advanced Practice Public and Allied Health
Publisher:	Elsevier
Date of acceptance:	6 January 2026
Date Deposited:	07 Jan 2026 15:52
Last Modified:	07 Jan 2026 15:52
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/27869

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