Overview

• The Department of Health and Social Care unveiled targeted messaging for 16–24-year-olds using online films and social platforms, with materials delivered via FRANK to schools, universities and local public health teams.
• Warnings focus on severe bladder damage from ketamine, counterfeit medicines containing potent synthetic opioids such as nitazenes, and THC vapes found to contain synthetic cannabinoids.
• Government data show an eight-fold increase in people needing treatment for ketamine use since 2015, indicating rapidly rising demand on services.
• An additional £310 million in targeted grants will expand drug and alcohol treatment and recovery support in England, including specialist services for children and young people, separate from the Public Health Grant.
• Authorities report 5,448 drug-poisoning deaths in England and Wales in 2023, and harm-reduction group The Loop welcomed the focus on clear, non-judgemental information and routes to help.