‘Be smart, don’t start’: Young people warned about ketamine risks

Partners, police and a Holyhead school joined forces this week to host a two-day pilot event raising awareness of the dangers of ketamine.

The event, named ‘Be smart, Don’t start’, was organised by North Wales Police’s School Service Manager and held at Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi on Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 February.

Around 250 young people aged between 13-16 took part in interactive workshops and open conversations around ketamine and the potential consequences in an engaging and safe environment.

Inputs were presented by North Wales Police, Be Di’r Sgor, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board including the Stoma Nurses and Dental Nurses, Ynys Mon Youth Service, Welsh Ambulance Service Trust and CAHMS to demonstrate the ripple effects of drug use.

The partnership approach to prevention comes following a rising trend of ketamine use across North Wales in recent years.

Chief Inspector Jon Aspinall said: “We are working with partners continuously to stop the harm that drugs cause in all parts of our communities.

“Recent action has resulted in two individuals being arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply ketamine.  

“Another way we are tackling the rising concerns around ketamine is through prevention and awareness.

“The event this week reinforced the importance of making positive choices, staying safe and looking out for others.”

The first day began with an introduction from Be Di’r Sgor, who provide information and advice to young people around substance misuse in Anglesey and Gwynedd. They explained what ketamine is and why it is harmful, especially to young people.

School Police Officers spoke about the laws around drugs and how an individual’s future would be impacted if they were to have a criminal record, including limiting job opportunities and even holiday destinations.

Later, the students learned about the health impacts of ketamine and the long-term impacts of substance misuse. One element being the link to bladder problems which could result in the need for serious surgery and the use of stoma bags for life.

The event also provided clear signposting to support services available to young people, confidential reporting options, and early intervention available.

CI Aspinall continued: “Using ketamine can seriously harm your health and people who are considering taking it, especially young people and teenagers, may use it without understanding the consequences.

“We will continue to act on intelligence against those involved in the supply of ketamine and will robustly pursue and bring individuals to justice to stop young people from being targeted.”

Deputy Headteacher and Safeguarding lead for Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi, Stella Dennis-Bunting, said: “We are committed to ensuring our pupils are informed, safe and supported.

“Hosting the ‘Be Smart, Don’t Start’ event gave our students the opportunity to learn about the real dangers of ketamine in an open and engaging way.

“We are grateful to all partners who helped deliver such an important message and provide clear pathways to support.”

Stoma Nurse Sharon Thomas said: “I really enjoyed attending and speaking to the young people. It was important to have open and honest conversations about the dangers of ketamine and the very real consequences it can have.

“If sharing this information helps even one young person stop and think before taking something that could change their life forever, then it’s absolutely worth it.”

Talking to somebody about a drug problem is the first step to resolving your problems. You can call DAN 24/7 on 0808 808 2234 anytime day or night.

Anybody with information about drug supply in Anglesey can report concerns to police via our website or by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.