Local police forces in the UK sometimes apply diversion schemes to avoid criminal prosecution for personal cannabis possession.

In practice, enforcement of cannabis laws varies across the UK. Some Police and Crime Commissioners have implemented diversion schemes that steer users found with small amounts of cannabis away from the criminal justice system. These programs aim to reduce the burden on courts and encourage treatment or education rather than punishment. However, these practices are inconsistent and depend heavily on regional policies and priorities, meaning that cannabis users can have very different experiences depending on their location.