Ketamine Use Is Rising
Why Education and Early Intervention Matter More Than Ever
A recent ITV News investigation has shone a light on the growing ketamine crisis affecting young people across the UK. The report, the devastating physical and emotional consequences of ketamine misuse, including severe bladder damage, long-term health complications, and, in some cases, loss of life.
At Kenward Trust, this is not an isolated or distant issue. We are increasingly seeing people come into our residential rehabilitation services whose primary addiction is ketamine, often alongside other substances. Many of the people we support began using ketamine at a young age, unaware of the serious and sometimes irreversible harm it can cause.
The Reality of Ketamine Addiction
As highlighted in the ITV News report, ketamine use among young people has risen sharply in recent years. Once considered a “party drug,” it is now being used by teenagers and young adults in everyday settings — including schools. The short-lived effects can mask the damage it causes, leading many to underestimate the risks until serious harm has already occurred.
In our rehab services, we see firsthand how ketamine addiction can impact every part of a person’s life: physical health, mental wellbeing, relationships, education, and future prospects. Recovery is possible, but early awareness and intervention are critical.
Educating Young People to Think Differently
This is why education is at the heart of prevention, and why our Think Differently programme exists.
Think Differently works with schools across Kent and Medway to help young people understand the real-life consequences of alcohol and substance misuse, including ketamine. Rather than relying on scare tactics, the programme uses lived experience — delivered by trained staff whose lives have been directly affected by addiction, or by parents who have lost a child.
Through these powerful stories, students learn about:
The physical and mental health risks of substances like ketamine
Peer pressure, gangs, and the link between drugs and crime
The emotional impact on families and relationships
How small choices can lead to life-altering consequences
Crucially, Think Differently also shares messages of hope, change, and recovery, helping young people understand that support is available and that it is never too late to make a positive choice.
From Awareness to Action
The ITV News report reinforces what we see every day: ketamine misuse is a growing problem, and tackling it requires more than legislation alone. Honest education, open conversations, and access to support are vital.
At Kenward Trust, our work spans prevention through education and support through recovery. If you are a school, parent, or professional who would like to learn more about Think Differently, or if you or someone you care about needs support with addiction, please get in touch with us.