New campaign launched to help young adults in Dorset struggling with ketamine use

A new campaign, ‘Forget The Ket’, has launched in Dorset to raise awareness of the risks associated with ketamine use and signpost young adults to the free, confidential support available.

Both nationally and locally, there has been a concerning rise in ketamine use among young adults. Additionally, there has been an increase in ketamine and other drugs being contaminated with more potent synthetic opiate substances heightening the risk of overdose. This campaign aims to educate young adults about these dangers and signpost them to support services.

Ketamine is currently classified as a Class B drug, but the Government is considering reclassifying it as Class A, a move strongly supported by the council and local partners. Ketamine is far more dangerous than many people realise, with regular use potentially leading to serious and lasting health issues. These include anxiety, depression, memory loss, and significant damage to the urinary system and bladder.

While the safest option is not to use drugs at all, the campaign provides harm reduction advice for those who do, helping to reduce the risk of overdose and other harms.

Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Health, said: “Ketamine can have serious and lasting effects on someone’s life, both physically and mentally.

“Over the last year, we’ve seen multiple stories highlighting the dangers of ketamine. I’m pleased we’re addressing this issue in Dorset and that a wide range of support is available for anyone who needs it.”

‘Forget The Ket’ is being delivered in partnership with Dorset Council, Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council, Clarity (Dorset Lived Experience Recovery Organisation), the Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, Reach and WithYou, to tackle the growing concern around ketamine use and its impact on young adults across the county.

Cllr David Brown, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing said: “We have seen increased numbers of younger adults come into our drug and alcohol support services seeking help with ketamine dependency. 

“By raising awareness of ketamine and the damaging effects it can have on health we can hopefully protect younger adults from not using ketamine at all and those who have problems with ketamine to seek help locally. 

“If you’re struggling with ketamine use or worried about a friend, help is available. You’re not alone, and reaching out is the first step to staying safe.”

‘Forget The Ket’ has been shaped by people with lived experience of ketamine use. It features real stories from people in Dorset who have been affected and found support through local recovery services. The campaign will run across social media, local venues, and youth-focused platforms throughout winter, with targeted messaging designed to resonate with young adults and encourage early intervention.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am pleased to support this new campaign as I know the real harm and damage ketamine causes in our communities, particularly to young people.

“This campaign is an important step in confronting the myths surrounding this drug and ensuring that individuals understand the very serious and life-changing risks it poses. I urge everyone in Dorset to engage with the campaign and help us protect those most vulnerable.”

As part of the campaign, Liv, a member of Clarity wrote ‘Walls Start to Melt’, a poem based on her lived experience with ketamine. It shares an honest and personal perspective on how ketamine can affect your mind, body, and relationships, while showing that recovery is possible with the right support.

Thank you to Liv for sharing her powerful words and story. If you know someone who needs hope, share this poem, it could make a real difference.

For more information about ketamine and the campaign, visit our Ketamine: Facts, risks, and where to get support page.

Support for ketamine use

If you're worried about someone's ketamine or other drug use, free and confidential support is available.

• If you live in the Dorset Council area, contact Reach on 0800 043 4656
• If you live in the BCP Council area, contact WithYou on 01202 558855

These services offer tailored support around ketamine use, including advice for individuals as well as friends and family affected by someone’s drug use. If speaking to someone feels difficult right now, you can complete an online form and someone will contact you confidentially.