Ketamine Is Stealing Young Lives in Kent
Over the past few years, we have seen a clear and concerning change at Kenward Trust.
More young people are reaching out for help with ketamine addiction - often at a point when the impact on their health and wellbeing has already become significant.
In the last two to three years, the number of people being referred to us with ketamine addiction has steadily increased. Many of those coming through our doors are under 30, and a growing number are under 24.
As our CEO explains, early access to treatment is critical:
“It’s essential that these young people get the treatment as soon as they can.”
For anyone struggling with addiction, the first step is often the hardest - reaching out for help. This may begin with a GP or a local drug and alcohol service, who can assess whether residential rehab is the right next step.
Residential treatment provides the opportunity to step away from everyday pressures, break cycles of addiction, and begin a structured journey towards recovery.
Why this matters now
Ketamine use is often misunderstood. For many young people, it does not initially appear dangerous. But over time, its effects can become severe - impacting both physical and mental health.
We are seeing more individuals coming to us at a point where the consequences are already serious.
That is why access to timely treatment is so important.
No one should have to reach crisis point before they can access help.
Breaking down barriers to treatment
At Kenward Trust, we provide specialist residential rehabilitation and recovery support.
However, access to treatment is not always straightforward. When someone is ready to seek help, funding is not always available at the right time - which can delay access to life‑changing support.
That delay can have lasting consequences.
Through our Help Save Young Lives campaign, we are working to ensure that when a young person is ready to take that step, support is available.
Our aim is to support up to 12 young people into treatment over the next year - starting with our first milestone of funding three treatment places.
Joel, Jack and Saul at Kenward Trust, now in recovery
Real people, real recovery
Recovery is possible - and we see that every day.
The young people who come to Kenward Trust are not defined by their addiction. They are individuals rebuilding their lives, rediscovering purpose, and moving forward with hope.
As one resident shared:
“If it wasn’t for Kenward Trust, I don’t know where I’d be. Recovery is still hard, but I love waking up now and that’s thanks to the support I’ve had here.”
How you can help
Support from our community is vital.
Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply helping to raise awareness, every action plays a part in making sure more young people can access the support they need.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who chooses to support our work.
Find out more and support the campaign.
Need support?
If you or someone you care about needs help with ketamine use, support is available.
Email or phone Kenward Trust:
confidential.advice@kenwardtrust.org.uk
01622 812603