Somerset Council is warning residents about the dangers of ketamine, following a sharp rise in local use and ketamine-related health issues.

The Council's Public Health team, alongside Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (SDAS), is stepping up action to address growing concerns about the drug's impact — particularly on young people.

Alison Bell, Somerset's 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. The longer-term effects can cause serious bladder damage alongside mental health problems and dependence."

Joint response launched

The coordinated county-wide response includes:

• New professional training and briefings
• Expanded online resources for families and practitioners
• New clinical pathways in partnership with Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
• A targeted public awareness campaign for the 2026 festival season
• Further local data collection on who is being affected

Joy Gamlin, Senior Operations Manager at SDAS, said: "Since 2020 we have seen an increase in those seeking help for ketamine use. Nearly two-thirds are aged 25 or under."

Help and support available

SDAS offers free, confidential support and is delivered by Turning Point on behalf of Somerset Council. Anyone concerned about ketamine use — their own or someone else's — is encouraged to contact the service for advice.

Councillor Graham Oakes, Lead Member for Public Health, added: "I would urge anyone needing harm reduction advice or concerned about ketamine use to get in touch with SDAS – it is there to help."

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Somerset Council has awarded SDAS a new three-year contract to continue delivering specialist support services, with an option to extend by a further three years.

Visit Turning Point Somerset or call 0300 303 8788.

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