Ketamine Advice and Support

Protecting young people and our communities 

Ketamine misuse is causing serious harm to individuals and communities across Cheshire. What may appear to some as a “party drug” is in fact leaving young people with long-term physical and mental health issues — and driving violence, exploitation and fear in local neighbourhoods.  

Organised dealers are targeting children and vulnerable adults to move or sell drugs, often using threats, debt and coercion to keep control.  

Nationally there has been an 85% increase in users in last two years. It is the now the 3rd most consumed drug in the UK and 16–17-year-olds are the most common age for people seeking treatment for Ketamine related issues. 

Ketamine is extremely affordable compared to other illicit drugs, making it easily accessible to younger people with limited funds. 

As police, our focus is to protect those being exploited, prevent further harm and target the criminal networks supplying ketamine.  

 

On this page you will find:  

• The health risks linked to ketamine misuse.
• How exploitation and “county lines” operations work.
• Signs for parents and carers to look out for.
• How to report information safely and anonymously.
• Where to find support for anyone affected.  

Together, we can help protect young people and disrupt the supply of ketamine in our communities. 

If someone is in immediate danger or a crime is in progress, call 999. For non-urgent information or intelligence, call 101 or report online. 

 

How ketamine harms people 

Ketamine is a powerful anaesthetic that affects perception, memory and coordination. Repeated use can quickly cause both physical and psychological harm.  

• Bladder and kidneys: regular use can lead to severe bladder pain, bleeding, passing of jelly like bodily fluids, incontinence and long-term kidney damage - often called “ketamine bladder.” The lining of the bladder will eventually erode, and can ultimately lead to death when organs fail. Many young people have to rely on nappies to cope with “ket bladder.” 
• Brain and mood: confusion, depression, memory loss and detachment from reality.   
• Risk of injury or overdose: ketamine numbs pain and slows reactions. Mixing with alcohol or opioids increases the risk of respiratory failure.  
• Dependence and tolerance can develop quickly.  
• Hidden strength: purity of street ketamine varies - meaning users may take far more than intended without realising. 

 

How ketamine harms communities 

With the consumption of ketamine brings violence, debt and exploitation to local areas.  

• Cuckooing: dealers take over the homes of vulnerable people to store and sell drugs.  
• Child exploitation: young people are groomed or threatened into carrying drugs or cash.  
• Anti-social behaviour: late-night activity, visitors, and discarded packaging. 

 

How exploitation happens 

Organised drug groups use grooming tactics similar to those seen in sexual or criminal exploitation.  

Common grooming tactics include freebies, lifts, food or small gifts; older 'friends' or partners; and promises of money or belonging, followed by threats and debt.  

Children may be made to carry drugs, cash or weapons, travel to other towns, hide drugs, or stay in 'trap houses'.  

They often don’t ask for help because they fear arrest or retaliation, feel responsible or ashamed, or believe they owe money.  

 

Signs to look out for (parents and carers) 

Signs of ketamine use can include: 

• Finding empty snap bags with white powder residue  
• Asking for money - more than usual  
• Mood changes  
• Complaining of symptoms that resemble a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)  
• Excessive use of the toilet 
• Frequent sniffing  
• Nasal problems  
• Red or glazed eyes  
• Poor balance  
• Memory gaps  

 

Signs of exploitation can include:  

• New expensive items  
• Multiple phones  
• Missing school  
• Controlling older friends  
• Sudden irritability or mood swings 
• Sudden changes in behaviour 

If you’re worried, talk calmly, listen, and avoid confrontation.  

Do not confront dealers; report your concerns to police.  

Visit Talk to Frank for more guidance on how to talk to someone about drugs.  

 

Help us to take ketamine off your streets 

Your information helps us understand what’s happening, protect those at risk and take action against suppliers.  

We are encouraging you to share any information that may help build the intelligence picture - no matter how small it may seem.  

This can include: 

• Names and nicknames of suspected suppliers 
• Addresses, vehicles or regular locations 
• Phone numbers, social media accounts/pages or online profiles 
• Information about exploitation of young or vulnerable people 
• Any suspicious activity linked to drug supply in local areas 

Never put yourself at risk. Report via 999 (emergencies), 101 (non-urgent), or report online.

You can also report completely anonymously through Crimestoppers (0800 555 111), or Fearless.org. 

 

Support and help 

For young people and families:  

• NHS 111 for health advice, GP or school health team 
• FRANK (0300 123 6600 / text 82111 / talktofrank.com)  
• Local drug services.  

 

Myths and facts 

“It’s just a bit of ket.” 

Even occasional ketamine use can cause lasting harm to the bladder, kidneys and mental health. 

 

“I’d know if my child was involved.” 

Exploitation is often subtle and quick. Young people can be groomed without recognising it themselves. 

 

“My child wouldn’t touch drugs.” 

Ketamine use among young people is rising rapidly. Many try it to fit in with friends, unaware of the real risks. Any young person can be exposed to ketamine at school, college, university, parties, bars or parks — even those you least expect. 

 

“Reporting won’t make a difference.” 

Every single report helps police build a clearer intelligence picture and target those supplying ketamine in your community. 

 

We’re determined to take ketamine off your streets.  

Tell us what you know