In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the use of ketamine among young people, leading to growing concerns for drug education charity the DSM Foundation. The charity has expressed particular concern over the potential harms associated with ketamine use, including bladder damage, dependence, and drug-related deaths.
According to student surveys conducted by the DSM Foundation, ketamine is consistently perceived as the most prevalent substance used by 15-18 year olds, surpassing other commonly used substances such as cocaine and MDMA. This increase in ketamine use has prompted cries for help from parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals across the country.
In response to these concerns, the government has commissioned an updated review from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD), more than a decade after their previous review in 2013. The DSM Foundation welcomes the publication of this review, which provides valuable insights into the current context of ketamine use and offers recommendations for addressing the issue.
While much attention may focus on the recommendation to change the legal classification of ketamine, the DSM Foundation emphasizes the importance of other recommendations related to prevention, education, training, and harm reduction. The charity has been working diligently to provide young people with the necessary information, skills, and strategies to make informed decisions about ketamine and reduce potential risks.
Through specialized content, workshops, and online resources, the DSM Foundation aims to equip young people with the knowledge and tools to identify early signs of bladder damage and dependence, make informed decisions, and seek support if needed. In addition, the charity has developed a free ketamine resource pack for schools, including a staff briefing and resources for teachers to use in drug education lessons.
Fiona Spargo-Mabbs OBE, founder and director of the DSM Foundation, expresses concern for the rising prevalence of ketamine use among young people and the unique risks associated with this substance. She urges the government to take action in response to the strong recommendations made by the ACMD, and to develop evidence-informed resources and programs that will support young people and their caregivers in reducing harm and finding appropriate support.
Established in 2014 following the death of 16-year-old Daniel Spargo-Mabbs from an accidental overdose of ecstasy, the DSM Foundation aims to provide young people with relevant, age-appropriate, up-to-date, and evidence-based information about drugs. Through partnerships with schools, colleges, and community organizations, the charity has reached almost 750 educational settings in the UK. They also offer workshops for parents and caregivers, as well as training for school staff, who are often sought out as sources of information about drugs and alcohol by 11-15 year olds.
In addition, the DSM Foundation offers a verbatim play, “I Love You Mum, I Promise I Won’t Die,” commissioned by the charity to tell Daniel’s story through the words of his family and friends. This play is now used as a GCSE Drama set text on the Eduqas syllabus and is also available for schools to book as a Theatre in Education performance. Schools and colleges can also access free age-appropriate, evidence-based drug education resources on the DSM Foundation website.
For more information about the work of the DSM Foundation, please visit their website at https://www.dsmfoundation.org.uk/. Media inquiries can be directed to media@dsmfoundation.org.uk.