A group of Birmingham childhood friends are set to launch ‘Grams,’ a novel lounge designed as a sanctuary for individuals using medicinal cannabis, aiming to provide a space free from stigma and judgment. Scheduled to open its doors on November 1st, the establishment is poised to offer a unique environment for prescription holders to consume their medication responsibly.
A Haven for Holistic Healing and Community
Grams is envisioned as more than just a place to vape; it’s a hub for holistic healing and cannabis-based wellness. The lounge, located at the Wharfside Leisure Complex on Lifford Lane, will feature vibrant murals of popular rappers, offering a distinct aesthetic that blends urban culture with a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can expect amenities such as Luke Littler dartboards, a pool table, a stage for live performances, and a curated selection of food and coffee. The founders have also ensured the space is equipped with modern vaporising equipment, catering specifically to the needs of medical cannabis users.
Navigating the UK’s Cannabis Landscape
The opening of Grams comes at a time when attitudes towards cannabis are evolving, yet its legal status in the UK remains complex. While recreational cannabis use is classified as a Class B drug and remains illegal, medical cannabis has been legal for prescription since November 2018. Grams operates strictly within these legal boundaries. Selling cannabis is illegal in England, and Grams will not be selling any products on the premises. Instead, the focus is on providing a safe environment for those who already possess a valid prescription to use their prescribed medication. Access to the lounge requires rigorous screening, including ID and prescription verification, ensuring all visitors are legitimate medical cannabis patients. Furthermore, only vaping will be permitted; smoking cannabis is strictly prohibited due to health regulations and the preference for vapourisation in public or semi-public settings.
Combating Stigma and Fostering Connection
The twelve childhood friends behind Grams reconnected in their thirties, driven by a shared vision to create a positive and supportive space. They aim to directly address the societal stigma that medical cannabis patients often face, a challenge highlighted by reports indicating that a significant percentage of patients experience discrimination. By offering a comfortable and regulated environment, Grams seeks to normalise the use of medicinal cannabis as a legitimate treatment option and foster social connections among like-minded individuals. The lounge also plans to offer support and signposting for those struggling with drug and alcohol addictions, further cementing its role as a community-focused wellness centre.
Membership Tiers and Accessibility
Membership at Grams starts at a basic £10 per month, granting access to the venue with an additional entry fee per visit. Higher tiers, such as Silver, Gold, and Platinum, offer enhanced benefits including discounts on food, drinks, merchandise, and priority access to event tickets. This tiered membership model aims to make the lounge accessible to a broad range of users while supporting the operational costs of maintaining a safe and welcoming space. The mandatory ID and prescription verification process is central to maintaining the lounge’s legal compliance and safe operating environment.
A New Chapter for Cannabis Culture
Grams represents a significant development in Birmingham’s evolving cultural landscape and reflects a broader trend of destigmatisation and acceptance of cannabis, particularly within the wellness sector. As more medical cannabis lounges and wellness cafes emerge across the UK, ventures like Grams are paving the way for a more inclusive future for cannabis users, demonstrating a growing demand for spaces that prioritise health, community, and acceptance. This initiative, alongside related news about cannabis culture and music, signifies a shifting perception, making it an increasingly trending topic in public discourse.
