• You must be aged 18 or over to buy alcohol in the UK, both in shops and in pubs. You may be requested to show proof of age (ID card or passport) if you look under the age of 25.
  • It is illegal to possess, use or supply class A, B or C drugs in the United Kingdom. If you are caught with an illegal substance, you may be taken to the police station and charged. Please see here for information about drug penalties in the UK.
  • The legal minimum age to have sex (both heterosexual and homosexual) in the United Kingdom is 16. Viewing and downloading pornography from the internet is illegal and if discovered may lead to you being prosecuted.

If you are arrested by the police

If you are arrested by the police in the United Kingdom, you should remain calm and ask for the assistance of an interpreter and a lawyer. Do not discuss your charges until you have an interpreter present and can explain your case in your own language.

If you require assistance by a member of the ECS Scotland management, please ask to call our emergency number which is issued in your student handbook.