Somerset health leaders warn of rising ketamine use and associated risks
Advice and resources offered to those affected by substance use concerns
Health officials in Somerset are raising awareness of the increasing dangers associated with ketamine use, emphasizing the availability of support for individuals affected by the substance.
Reportedly, ketamine use has been rising not just locally but across the country, leading to physical and mental health risks as usage continues. In response, Somerset Council's Public Health team, in collaboration with the Somerset Drugs and Alcohol Service (SDAS), is implementing initiatives to address ketamine-related harm.
These initiatives include professional webinars and briefings, expanded online resources, and the development of new clinical pathways alongside Somerset Foundation Trust. Efforts also involve further investigation into those affected by the drug and a public awareness campaign scheduled for the 2026 festival season.
Somerset's Director of Public Health, Alison Bell, expressed concern over the increasing trend, especially among young individuals. Alison Bell stated: “We know the short‑term effects can involve dissociation, hallucinations and reduced motor coordination, all of which increase the risk of injury, to those under the influence of ketamine. The longer-term effects of ketamine can cause serious bladder damage alongside mental health problems and dependence. People don’t realise the serious health consequences of taking ketamine.”
Joy Gamlin, Senior Operations Manager at SDAS, echoed these concerns, noting the rise in younger users seeking help for ketamine use. Gamlin said: “SDAS works with a wide range of people from across Somerset who are seeking support for their substance use, and since 2020 we have seen an increase in those seeking help for ketamine use. We recognise that this isn’t an issue confined to Somerset, and, in common with other areas, we are seeing younger people seeking help, with nearly two-thirds being aged 25 or under.”
Councillor Graham Oakes urged anyone needing harm reduction advice or concerned about ketamine use to contact SDAS for support.
Additionally, Somerset Council has awarded SDAS a three-year contract, extendable by a further three years, to provide specialised services to individuals struggling with drug and alcohol use.
Dawn Holmes, Operations Manager at SDAS and Turning Point's National Children and Young Persons Lead, highlighted the importance of collaboration among different services to provide comprehensive support. Holmes said: “Working together just makes it easier for people to get support, whether they speak to their GPs first or a teacher in school, youth worker, mental health service, or directly to us. If we're all linked in and we have that joined up approach, then it helps us intervene earlier and prevent people from falling through those gaps.”
For those concerned about ketamine use, Dawn Holmes provided reassurance, stating that the support offered by SDAS is free, confidential, and non-judgmental. Holmes emphasised the importance of reaching out, regardless of the severity of the issue, to seek support or advice.
For more information and support, individuals are encouraged to access SDAS's resources via their website or contact their support line.