DHI has launched a specialist ketamine pathway and dedicated resources to help people whose use of ketamine is beginning to affect their health, wellbeing or daily life. The South Gloucestershire-based service also offers early intervention, harm‑reduction advice and structured support for anyone concerned about their own use or the use of someone they care about.
The service is responding to a sharp rise in ketamine use across the region. According to official figures, ketamine problems among young people in England have more than doubled in two years – rising 134% – and the South West is now the region where ketamine use is most visible in treatment services.
The service brings together clinical partners, lived experience facilitators, drug and alcohol practitioners and pain management expertise to ensure people receive timely, compassionate and evidence‑based help.
Rosie Phillips, Chief Executive of DHI, says: “We are seeing a growing number of people being referred to our South Gloucestershire treatment service with problematic ketamine use. The new pathway sits alongside dedicated resources to ensure a comprehensive response, recognising that ketamine has shifted from being seen as a relatively niche party drug to a much more widely used substance, especially among younger people.”
Tailored support
The specialist ketamine pathway includes an initial conversation and assessment with DHI, a health check with GP partners at Hanham Health, a six‑session online support group focused on harm reduction and wellbeing as well as pain management information and advice. Assessment will also identify other needs an individual may be presenting with, and will refer onto other relevant support, at DHI or elsewhere, including mutual‑aid options such as the K‑Hold group run by people with lived experience.
This multi-disciplinary clinical and psychosocial approach ensures people receive the right level of support at the right time, with clear follow‑up and ongoing care.
Simon Roche, who received treatment from DHI for ketamine use and now runs the K‑Hold group, says: “Problematic ketamine use can be incredibly isolating, and the physical issues it causes – such as bladder problems – often increase feelings of loneliness and shame. DHI’s service gives people support that’s genuinely tailored to what they’re going through. Having been through ketamine addiction myself, I know that reaching out is the hardest step. I want people to know that DHI is here, and you don’t have to face this alone.”
How to get support
People can contact the South Gloucestershire Drug & Alcohol Service directly:
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