Fr Alex Frost, a vicar at St Matthew’s Church in Burnley, is leading a campaign for the establishment of a children’s ketamine clinic in Lancashire. This initiative follows the launch of a recovery program for minors at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, which is the first of its kind in England. The campaign, known as “Kick Out Ket,” aims to address the growing concern over ketamine addiction among children.
Fr Frost highlights a significant gap in support for young individuals struggling with addiction to this Class B substance, which is a powerful anaesthetic that can lead to severe health issues, including irreversible bodily harm and even death. He notes that many families are left without adequate resources, as general practitioners often recommend only “talking therapy” or provide informational leaflets instead of comprehensive treatment options.
“One mother was told to buy her daughter a new dress to cheer her up a bit. It’s just bonkers,” Fr Frost stated, expressing his frustration with the current approach. He argues that GPs should conduct thorough medical assessments for children presenting with ketamine-related issues, as the substance can adversely affect the nose, bladder, liver, kidneys, and mental health.
Urgency for Early Intervention
Fr Frost believes that a structured program is essential to effectively treat children with ketamine addiction, especially those who have been using the substance for an extended period. He warns that failure to address this crisis promptly could lead to dire consequences, not only for the affected children but also for their families and communities.
“I think the key is early intervention. The consequences of just leaving it as it is are tenfold,” he explained. He emphasized the need for immediate action to prevent long-term health issues and the potential collapse of the National Health System (NHS) due to increased treatment demands.
The impact of ketamine addiction extends beyond the individual. Fr Frost points out that siblings of affected children often witness the negative effects of drug use. “They see the impact of the drug on someone who should be a role model to them,” he noted, highlighting the broader implications of addiction on family dynamics.
Growing Awareness and Call to Action
Despite the challenges, Fr Frost has observed a rising awareness regarding the issue of ketamine addiction among youth. He expressed optimism about the community’s response, stating, “I have been really encouraged by people’s responses. I don’t feel we’re talking to a brick wall anymore.”
The campaign aims to mobilize local authorities and stakeholders to take decisive action. Fr Frost insists that those directly affected by addiction – the children and their families – should be considered the experts in this matter. “Who are the experts? They’re the kids and families who are living it daily,” he asserted.
As the “Kick Out Ket” campaign gains momentum, Fr Frost urges the community to remain vigilant and advocate for essential support services. He believes that proactive measures can prevent a more significant crisis, urging local authorities to act before the situation escalates.
The call for a specialized clinic in Lancashire represents a crucial step in addressing a growing public health concern and ensuring that children receive the necessary care and support to overcome addiction.