Knowsley Council is working with Change Grow Live (CGL) to offer a free online session to help parents and carers understand more about ketamine – a dangerous drug that more young people across the borough are experimenting with, often without realising the serious harm it can cause.
This rise in ketamine use isn’t just happening in Knowsley. Services across the country have seen an increase in young people and young adults using the drug, with worrying health impacts being report amongst children as young as 12 years old.
This online session will help you:
- Learn what ketamine is, why young people may use it and how it affects the body and mind
- Spot the signs that someone may be using the drug and understand how to start a supportive conversation
- Find out why a calm, non‑judgemental approach makes a big difference
- Understand how you can help prevent or address ketamine use
- How you can get help, advice and support for you and the user
Who is it suitable for?
The briefing session will raise general awareness but will also support Knowsley’s response to the rising use of Ketamine, particularly in but not limited to younger people (10-29).
Event details
Date: Tuesday 24th March
Time: 17:30-18:30
Location: Online – register
What are the dangers of ketamine use?
In the short term, ketamine use can result in disorientation, confusion, and the inability to move properly , this can result in the user putting themselves in increasingly dangerous situations. The drug is also an anaesthetic meaning an accidental injury can go unnoticed and untreated.
Longer term use can result in irreversible bladder damage, including removal of the bladder and other lifelong problems such as kidney failure.
What are the signs of ketamine use?
Parents in Knowsley are being urged to know what the signs of ketamine use are so that they are able to help a young people to access support. Parents and carers, as well as children and young people will not be punished for accessing support and so should be actively encouraged to do so. Signs and Symptoms include:
- Severe confusion
- Paranoia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of sensory perception
- Loss of coordination/control of the body
- Stomach cramps
- Pain and/or bleeding when urinating
Where can we access support?
If parents are worried about a child’s drug use, there is advice and support available on how to approach the situation with them via talktofrank.com
In Knowsley, drug support services are available for anyone aged 10+ and can be accessed via Change Grow Live. Visit www.changegrowlive.org/integrated-recovery-service-knowsley.