Urgent action is needed as ketamine misuse among young people rises in Kent and Medway

Kenward Trust has warned that preventive education about the dangers of ketamine use has never been more critical, following new figures showing a sharp rise in the number of young people receiving treatment for substance misuse.

Saul, 29, in Recovery

Medway has seen the fifth highest increase in the country in children undergoing drug or alcohol treatment, with Kent now recording the 11th highest number of young people receiving specialist support nationwide.

Kenward Trust has been delivering its Think Differently secondary schools programme across Kent and Medway, helping pupils understand the risks associated with drugs and alcohol through honest education and lived-experience storytelling.

At a recent recovery event, 29-year-old Saul shared his powerful personal journey. He began using ketamine at the age of 13 after being told it would make him feel drunk without the hangover. Unaware of the long-term consequences, Saul went on to develop serious bladder damage and was forced to leave home by the age of 15. Now in recovery, he speaks in schools and community settings to warn others how quickly experimentation can turn into addiction.

Penny Williams, CEO of Kenward Trust, said:

“Parents and grandparents would be very surprised by just how easy it is for young people to access drugs, particularly online. Since the pandemic, substances can be ordered very quickly and delivered without parents even knowing.

That’s why it’s so important that families keep talking and stay engaged with their children. Ketamine is a drug that can have very serious side effects and a lasting impact on your long-term future.

Penny Williams, CEO, Kenward Trust

We hope young people will stop and think carefully about the choices they are making, and make safer decisions moving forward. For those who want them, drugs are within easy reach, which makes education and early intervention more important than ever.”

Kenward Trust is calling for continued investment in prevention, education and community-based support to help reduce the growing harm caused by ketamine and other substances among young people.

To watch the ITV News coverage featuring Kenward Trust and Saul’s recovery story, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Llr5LFFs4f4