THE increasing use of the drug ketamine in Somerset is being targeted by county health chiefs.
Somerset Council and its Public Health team are highlighting the dangers of ketamine – and the help available to those who need it.
Ketamine use has risen in recent years – not just in Somerset but across the country. But with the increase in use comes an increase in the effects, including to physical and mental health.
It came amid a decrease in heroin use (by 11%), and a 7% increase in cocaine consumption.
Now, Somerset Council, together with Somerset Drugs and Alcohol Service (SDAS), is taking a co-ordinated response to rising ketamine-related harm.
The action to tackle rising ketamine use in Somerset includes:
- Delivering professional webinars and briefings
- Expanding online resources for practitioners, parents and the public
- Developing new clinical pathways in partnership with Somerset Foundation Trust’s
- Further investigation into who is affected by this drug in Somerset
- A targeted public awareness campaign planned for the 2026 festival season
Alison Bell, Somerset director of public health, said: “I am extremely concerned about the increasing trend of ketamine use, particularly among young people.
“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, 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.
“Ketamine can cause significant health issues, so we would encourage anyone who would like free and confidential advice or support for their substance use to get in touch.”
And Cllr Graham Oakes, Somerset Council lead member for public health, added: “I would urge anyone needing harm reduction advice or who are concerned about their own ketamine use, or that of a friend or family member to get in touch with Somerset Drug & Alcohol Service – it is there to help.”
For more information – and details of support on offer – visit www.turning-point.co.uk/services/sdas or call 0300 303 8788.
READ MORE: Health & Wellbeing news from your Somerset Leveller
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