New ketamine awareness campaign launched across Norfolk
The Norfolk Drug and Alcohol Partnership (NDAP) has launched a county-wide ketamine awareness campaign aimed at helping key audiences better understand the risks associated with ketamine use and where to access support.
Developed in collaboration with students from the Media Learning Company at City College Norwich, the campaign – titled “Think ketamine’s harmless? Think again” – highlights the potential harms of ketamine, provides clear and accurate information to support informed decision-making, and encourages people to recognise warning signs and seek help for themselves or others.
As part of the campaign, students produced four targeted films designed to reach distinct audiences: young people aged 15–18, neurodiverse individuals, adults over 18, and parents and carers.
One of the students also chose to produce a film to raise awareness of what to do if someone overdoses for his final project.
The content is underpinned by extensive research carried out by the students, who worked with partnership agencies, individuals with lived experience, substance use charities, and young people through focus groups. Their findings highlight the growing concern around ketamine use in Norfolk:
- Approximately 5,800 Norfolk residents may use ketamine at least once each year (Source: Crime Survey for England and Wales)
- 5% of adults in drug and alcohol treatment in Norfolk in 2025 reported ketamine as a problem substance — significantly higher than the England average of 2% (Source: NDTMS)
- Young people under 19 report a need for more accessible information about the dangers of ketamine, including risks linked to contaminated substances (Source: UNITY/YouCan)
Rachael Cooper, NDAP Manager, said: “The campaign aims to spark important conversations about ketamine use, reduce misconceptions, and ensure that people across Norfolk know where to turn for advice and support.”
“We were extremely impressed by the passion, dedication and professionalism the students demonstrated throughout this project and it was clear from the outset that they felt strongly about making a positive difference in their community. The films and assets they have created will play a vital role in raising awareness and helping to keep people in Norfolk safe from harm, leaving a lasting legacy.”
Lorraine Sutherland, Media Learning Company Leader at City College Norwich, added: “The opportunity afforded to the students by the Norfolk Drug & Alcohol Partnership is exceptional. The students were supported to research and learn about this complex area before pitching concepts targeted at a variety of audiences. They learned from people working in the field and from those with lived experience. The students grew in confidence and maturity throughout the process, as well as developing skills in media production beyond their years. They have been trusted to create content that can genuinely impact their community and this humbling experience will no doubt stay with them for their rest of their lives.”
The films, further information and links to support services can be found on our dedicated Ketamine Hub below. If you would like further information or assets to accompany the films please email ndap@norfolk.police.uk:
Listen to NDAP Manager Rachael Cooper talk about the campaign on Poppyland Radio:
