‘Forget The Ket’ campaign launched in Dorset amid rising concern over ketamine use
Dorset has launched a campaign warning young adults of ketamine risks and offering free support
A new campaign aimed at tackling the growing use of ketamine among young adults has been launched in Dorset, amid warnings that the drug is far more dangerous than many people realise.
The initiative, called Forget The Ket, seeks to raise awareness of the risks associated with ketamine use and to direct young people to free, confidential support services across the county.
Both nationally and locally, authorities have seen a worrying increase in ketamine use among young adults.
At the same time, there has been a rise in ketamine and other drugs being contaminated with stronger synthetic opiates, significantly increasing the risk of overdose.
The campaign has been developed to educate young adults about those dangers, while also providing harm reduction advice for people who may still choose to use drugs.
Ketamine is currently classified as a Class B drug, but the government is considering reclassifying it as Class A - a move strongly supported by Dorset Council and its partners.
Campaign organisers say regular ketamine use can lead to serious and long-lasting health problems, including anxiety, depression, memory loss, and severe damage to the urinary system and bladder.
Cllr Gill Taylor said the issue had become increasingly urgent: “Over the last year, we’ve seen multiple stories highlighting the dangers of ketamine, so I’m pleased we’re addressing this issue in Dorset and that a wide range of support is available for anyone who needs it.”
The campaign, which has been shaped by people with lived experience of ketamine use, is being delivered in partnership with Dorset Council, BCP Council, Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner and local organisations including Clarity, Reach and WithYou.
Cllr David Brown said drug and alcohol services were seeing more young adults seeking help.
He said: “We have seen increased numbers of younger adults come into our 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 using ketamine all together and encourage those who are struggling to seek help locally.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said the campaign was vital in challenging misconceptions.
“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,” he said.