Students urged to know the risks of ketamine during Freshers Week

Cheshire Police is encouraging students to understand the risks associated with ketamine as Freshers Week begins.

For thousands of young people, the start of the new academic year means moving away from home, meeting new people and enjoying university life.

While Freshers Week should be an exciting time, it can also be a time when young people are exposed to drugs or choose to experiment with them.

Officers are therefore encouraging students to make sure they know the risks associated with ketamine and to look out for their friends while enjoying nights out.

Ketamine is sometimes perceived as a relatively low-risk recreational or party drug, but its use can have serious consequences.

Taking Ketamine can cause significant damage to the bladder and urinary tract and, in some cases, this damage can be irreversible. Ketamine use can also lead to dependence and have wider impacts on both physical and mental health.

Superintendent Amber Hodson, drugs lead for Cheshire Constabulary, said: “Freshers Week is an exciting time. For some young people it will be their first time living away from home, meeting lots of new people and having the freedom to make their own choices.

“We want students to enjoy that experience, but we also want them to stay safe. If you’re offered ketamine or any other drug on a night out, please stop and think about what you’re taking and the potential consequences.

“Ketamine isn’t harmless. It can affect your judgement and awareness, and it can lead to dependence and serious - potentially irreversible - damage to your health.

"Ketamine is also a Class B controlled drug. Possession can result in up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both. Supplying or producing ketamine can carry a sentence of up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both."

Anyone concerned about their own drug use or that of somebody they know can access confidential information, advice and support through FRANK and local drug and alcohol support services.

For further advice and support visit: Ketamine Advice and Support | Cheshire Constabulary