Higher education leaders and staff have long expressed concern about the impact of student drug use. This includes its effects on learning and mental health and on future job prospects, as well as the serious consequences of addiction and avoidable deaths. However, there has historically been limited understanding of the prevalence of student drug use across the United Kingdom (UK), and the extent of the harms that students experience. Universities UK (UUK) established a UK-wide taskforce in February 2022. Working in partnership with Unite Students, the taskforce aims to explore the drivers of student drug use and put forward practical recommendations for universities. The taskforce agreed to provide recommendations covering all students in UK higher education, recognising the significant differences of health and education policy in the four nations. It also agreed to understand the impact of student drug use on students who do not use drugs, as well as those who do. The scope of the taskforce's work includes all illicit drugs but excludes alcohol and tobacco. The taskforce recognises the significant impact of alcohol on student life and wellbeing, including the important interaction between alcohol and illegal drug use. However, in order to provide a focused set of recommendations for higher education providers, it agreed to limit its findings to the use of illicit drugs. This includes substances classed as illegal as well as prescription drugs used without or against clinical advice. The report highlights successful and innovative case studies and outlines approaches for universities to consider adopting. Amongst these are working with partners -- including the National Health Service (NHS) and police -- the training of staff, and the development and communication of clear and transparent drug policies.