Help us kick ket out

Ketamine use has dramatically increased across the country - as far back as March 2023, it was recorded that over 299,000 people aged between 16-59 had used ketamine that year, with numbers more than tripling in those under 25*.

(* Source: Gov.UK)

Thousands of young people are using ket, without understanding the true level of devastation it causes.

Ketamine, also known as ‘VitaminK’, ‘Special K’, ‘Katie’, ‘Super K’, ‘K’, ‘Donkey Dust’, ‘Ket’ or ‘Wonk’ is the current drug of choice for nights out - cheaper than alcohol, but far more potent.

Ketamine is traditionally used by doctors and vets as a general anesthetic and pain relief. It reduces sensations in the body and can make you feel detached from your body and the external world. The effects can be devastating.

Did you know? Ketamine is one of the drugs used in spiking incidents.

Help us #KickKetOut - if you know someone who is dealing ketamine, or have info about any other crimes, you can tell us 100% anonymously by filling out our online form:

Tell us what you know 100% anonymously

Ketamine is currently a Class B drug*, which means it’s illegal to use yourself, give away or sell.

If you’re found with ketamine on you, you can get up to 5 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

Supplying (selling, dealing or sharing with) someone else, even your friends, can get you up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

*The classification is being reviewed by the Government, with campaigners asking for ketamine to be upgraded to a Class A drug, which will mean tougher penalties for those found in possession of it.

The short-term effects of ketamine include feeling like you’re in dream-like state, floating and an overall sense of well-being.

Ketamine can also cause:

Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
Drowsiness (more sleepy than usual or falling asleep when you don’t want to)
Short and long term memory loss
Slurred speech
Nausea
Vomiting
Dissociation (feeling disconnected from yourself or the world around you)

Longer term and more regular use can lead to more serious issues such as:

K-Hole; the feeling of complete separation between mind and body
K-Cramps; cramping and pain in the bladder, caused by
K-Bladder; the disintegration of the lining of the bladder, which may lead to the continued need to use the toilet, incontinence and the need for surgery.

These symptoms are also numbed by the use of ketamine, leading to a false sense of security and continued use.

The effects of ketamine can become overwhelming and if used regularly, can lead to isolation and depression or make existing mental health struggles harder to deal with. In some situations, it can cause long-lasting changes to how your brain works.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you're not alone. There’s support out there and reaching out can really help.

If you or someone you care about is taking ketamine, you can get further information, support and advice using the resources and services below:

FRANK - confidential advice and information about drugs, their effects and the law.

Families Anonymous - support for friends and family of people using drugs.

We Are With You - supports people with drug, alcohol or mental health problems, and their friends and family.

A video with Tracy Morelli, mother of Sophie Russell, who died on 26th September 2024 as the result of ketamine:

James Dear, creator of the podcast Break the Chain, shares his own personal experience of dealing with a ketamine addiction. In this powerful and honest video, James shares his journey through addiction, recovery, and the ongoing fight to raise awareness of the devastation that ketamine causes. James’ story is a raw, real, and inspiring reminder that healing is possible - and that no one is alone in their struggle.

Help us #KickKetOut - if you know someone who is dealing ketamine, or have info about any other crimes, you can tell us 100% anonymously by filling out our online form:

Tell us what you know 100% anonymously