Concerns over rise in use of ketamine among young

FIGURES that show use of the drug ketamine in Devon is on the rise and above the national average have sparked a health warning from local treatment services.

According to the adult drug and treatment service Together, there has been a 53 per cent increase in the number of young people reporting having used the Class B drug since August 2022. The organisation also found that Devon had a higher rate of use compared to the national average.

The drug is most commonly used by people under 25 and some Devon schools have reported that some pupils, including those who have not been in trouble at school before, are experimenting with it both in and out of school.

Together, which has hubs in Exeter, Newton Abbot and Barnstaple along with wider outreach services, reported 20 cases of ketamine use from August 2022 to February 2023, an increase from 13 in the previous six months. Local treatment services Y-SMART and Together have attributed the increase in use, partially, to its affordability.

Possession of ketamine, a synthetic drug commonly used in veterinary practice, is illegal. It can cause feelings of disorientation, distorted senses, an increased risk of vomiting and feelings of paralysis. At higher doses it is likely that users will experience hallucinations.

Growing evidence suggests that long term effects can include bladder damage, with some having to have catheters fitted or their bladders completely removed, as well as profound negative mental health symptoms.

Secondary schools will be asked to share information with parents and students about the risks associated with using ketamine and Community Safety Partnerships in Devon will be providing information specifically about the drug in their ‘Let’s Talk Teenagers’ programmes.

Steve Brown, chair of Devon’s Drug and Alcohol Strategic Partnership, said: “We know that schools in Devon are already addressing the subject in classroom discussions and in school assemblies. And we know that youth groups and other organisations that support young people are also having those conversations.

“But we want those conversations to also happen at home. It’s important for parents and carers to stay as informed as possible, and that way they are better placed to help young people make the right choices.

“More information about Katamine is available on the Talk To Frank website.

“We will continue to monitor the local data and will review the additional steps that are being taken in Devon to make sure that they’re addressing the rise in reported use of ketamine.”

Devon and Cornwall Police has issued online guidance to anyone who has used ketamine and is experiencing physical or psychological symptoms.

The force asks anyone with intelligence about the supply of ketamine and any other illicit substances to report it by calling 101, or via their website. All information will be treated confidentially and with anonymity.

Adults who would like advice or support about drugs or alcohol can contact Together Devon on 0800 233 5444. Those under the age of 18 can contact Y-SMART, which is also providing support to secondary schools, on 01271 388162, or by emailing y-smart@devon.gov.uk.