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As a national leader in harm reduction and substance use treatment, Turning Point continues to call for policies that protect individuals, reduce stigma and prioritise health over punishment, particularly as ketamine‑related harm continues to rise across the UK.
ACMD highlights growing ketamine‑related harm
Today, the ACMD published its recommendation to government that ketamine should not be reclassified, recognising that while harm associated with ketamine use is increasing, particularly among younger people, tougher criminal penalties are unlikely to reduce use.
Importantly, the ACMD’s report also highlights the need for greater support for police forces and healthcare professionals to better identify, prevent and respond to ketamine‑related harm — a position long advocated by Turning Point.
Turning Point: focus on people, not punishment
Responding to the announcement, Nat Travis, National Head of Service for Substance Use at Turning Point, said today (Wednesday):
“Ketamine use and harm is rising sharply, particularly among young people, and it is essential that more is done to support the individuals, families and communities affected.
“We support the ACMD’s recommendation that ketamine remains classified as a Class B substance. Increasing criminal penalties for ketamine use risks deterring people from seeking help and may make them more vulnerable to drug-related harm.
“Ketamine use can have serious physical and mental health impacts but criminalisation does not stop people from using drugs. We need better education on the risks associated with drug use, dedicated information and support services for people using ketamine, with more coordination across treatment services, GPs, pharmacists and hospitals ensuring truly accessible support for those who need it. These are the measures that will meaningfully reduce ketamine-related harm.”
A harm reduction approach that works
Turning Point has consistently championed a harm reduction‑led response to substance use — one that recognises the realities of drug use and focuses on keeping people safe, informed and supported.
Evidence shows that fear of criminalisation can prevent people from accessing help, increasing health risks and widening inequalities. Turning Point believes that policy decisions must be grounded in public health evidence and shaped by lived experiences and the people directly affected by drug use.
This includes:
- Clear, accessible education about the risks of ketamine use
- Early intervention and non‑judgemental support
- Specialist ketamine services and informed healthcare responses
- Joined‑up working across treatment services, primary care and hospitals
- Supporting meaningful policy change
As ketamine use continues to rise, particularly among young adults, Turning Point is calling for investment in prevention, treatment and harm reduction, alongside national coordination to ensure consistent and accessible support across the country.
Turning Point will continue to work with partners, policymakers and communities to ensure that drug policy puts people first, reduces harm and enables individuals to seek help without fear or stigma.