St Helens Facebook Q&A session on ketamine and County Lines
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The Neighbourhood Policing Team at St Helens is to host a Facebook Q&A session alongside community partners to address concerns about drug use and criminal exploitation among young people.
Last year, officers in St Helens warned of an increase in the use of the Class B drug, ketamine, by many youths in the town and its associated risks to health and exploitation by criminals to use and sell the drug. In response, a partnership-driven action plan saw a decrease in ketamine use following weeks of awareness, education and enforcement activity but there are signs that ketamine use is creeping back up.
St Helens Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Stacey Pope, said: “Our partners at the Young People’s Drug & Alcohol Team and in the NHS are seeing an increase in referrals relating to ketamine use.
“This is concerning because, in addition to the drug-related offences, ketamine is addictive and is associated with a variety of serious health risks. It can lead to young people visiting their doctor or even A&E with abdominal complaints that can include serious problems with their bladder, kidney or liver. Sometimes the damage caused may be irreversible and result in life-long health problems.
“We are determined to help parents, guardians and young people understand the harmful effects of ketamine and the associated risks of being drawn into the world of County Lines drug dealing. Last year, we organised a drama competition for local school students to create a performance that educated their peers on the risks of using ketamine. Rainhill High School’s theatre study group created the winning production 'No to Ketamine’.
“We also hosted a Q&A session, and it was well received but we know there is still more work to raise awareness. Our next Q&A session is on Thursday 16 November between 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Facebook. We will be joined by partners from the local authority, health and social care and specialist support services.
“I would urge parents and guardians to learn more about the risks, impact and signs of ketamine and County Lines, by joining the Q&A session. Find out how, together, we can keep our young people safe.”
To join the St Helens Police Facebook Q&A session, log onto Facebook and search for St Helens Police. Look for the latest post and ask a question or, send a direct message if you wish to remain anonymous. If you miss the session, you can find the post and read the questions and answers at any time.
If you are concerned about your own use of ketamine or other drugs or alcohol, or you are concerned about somebody else, there are support services available.
For under 19s, contact the Young People’s Drug & Alcohol Team (YPDAAT) on 01744 675605 or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/ypdaat
For adults aged 19 and over, contact Change, Grow, Live (CGL) on 01744 410752 or visit www.changegrowlive.org
If you believe ketamine is being dealt in your area, please contact Merseyside Police via the social media desk on X @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’.
You can also pass information via Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org