Medicinal Cannabis Matters: Friday Roundup - 19 December 2025
As the year draws to a close, this week’s Medicinal Cannabis Matters is a reflection on some of the most significant developments of 2025. From international policy shifts to milestones closer to home, it has been a year that has seen medicinal cannabis move further into the mainstream conversation, supported by evidence, advocacy and growing patient access. This final round-up of the year brings together key highlights from across the landscape and from Medicann’s own journey.
A Global Shift: Cannabis Reclassified to Schedule III in the United States
In a major development announced yesterday, the United States moved to reclassify cannabis to Schedule III under federal law following the signing of a new executive order. As reported by Cannabis Business Times, this move acknowledges recognised medical use and a lower potential for abuse compared with previous classifications.
While the UK’s approach is different, international policy shifts like this often influence global research priorities, investment in trials and the pace at which evidence develops. For patients and clinicians alike, it represents another signal that medicinal cannabis is being taken increasingly seriously within established healthcare systems.
Opening Our Isle of Man Clinic
One of the standout milestones this year was the opening of our Isle of Man clinic. This expansion allowed us to bring specialist medicinal cannabis care closer to patients who previously had limited local access, supported by experienced prescribing doctors and a familiar Medicann approach to care.
For many patients, this meant shorter journeys, clearer pathways and the reassurance of being supported locally, while still benefiting from a wider clinical network.
Expanding Across the UK Mainland
2025 also marked a significant step forward as Medicann expanded services across the UK mainland. This expansion reflected growing demand for regulated, specialist cannabis-based treatment and an increasing awareness among patients seeking alternatives when conventional therapies have not met their needs.
By extending access beyond the Channel Islands, we have been able to support more patients with personalised treatment plans, while continuing to prioritise safety, education and clinical oversight.
Honouring Hannah Deacon’s Legacy
Earlier this year, we paid tribute to Hannah Deacon, a dear friend of Medicann’s. She was a pioneering advocate whose relentless efforts transformed the UK's approach to medicinal cannabis. Hannah's campaign for her son, Alfie Dingley, who suffers from a rare form of epilepsy, led to a landmark change in UK law in 2018, allowing for the prescription of medicinal cannabis.
Her work not only provided relief for her son but also paved the way for countless others seeking access to this treatment.
Hannah's dedication extended beyond her family. She co-founded Maple Tree Consultants, aiming to improve patient access and education around medicinal cannabis and she also worked directly with Medicann during this time. Her legacy continues to inspire progress and reminds us that real change often begins with the courage of one person speaking up for many.
Medicinal Cannabis Awareness Month and Community Partnership
November saw Medicann actively support Medicinal Cannabis Awareness Month, using the opportunity to spotlight progress, evidence and real patient experiences driving change in care. A key highlight was partnering with Grams Lounge in Birmingham, to help take the conversation into the local community, creating space for education, discussion and reduced stigma.
Medicinal Cannabis Awareness Month served as a reminder that progress is not only measured in policy or publications, but in understanding. Helping patients feel informed, supported and confident to explore their options.
As we close out 2025, it’s clear that medicinal cannabis is continuing to find its place within structured healthcare, supported by growing evidence, international momentum and patient advocacy. For Medicann, the year has been one of careful expansion, meaningful partnerships and a continued focus on putting patients first.
If you are considering whether medicinal cannabis could support your health or help you manage ongoing symptoms, the first step is to use our online eligibility checker. It is quick, confidential and available to patients across England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands.
This will be our final Medicinal Cannabis Matters of the year. We’ll be taking a short break over the festive period and will return in January with more updates, insights and developments from across the sector.
Happy Holidays from everyone at Medicann!
Disclaimer: This blog post and the following featured articles are for information only and any articles on external platforms may be amended at any time. Articles that we refer to in our weekly roundup do not reflect the views of Medicann.