Liverpool City Council recently passed a motion addressing the rising concerns regarding ketamine use among the youth. Spearheaded by Councillor Lynnie Hinnigan and supported by Councillor Harry Doyle, the motion underscores the Council’s dedication to safeguarding community health and well-being. During the meeting, Councillor Lynnie Hinnigan delivered a passionate speech, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
The city of Liverpool, known for its resilience and strength, is now confronted with a pressing issue affecting its young population at unprecedented levels. Ketamine, often likened to the heroin epidemic of the 80s, is now perceived as a more formidable threat. Its increasing popularity among teenagers and young adults in Liverpool and other UK cities has raised alarms among local health services and youth workers.
Unlike its former status as a niche party drug, ketamine has permeated mainstream culture, posing a grave danger to individuals’ physical and mental health. Reports indicate that the drug has become more accessible, particularly to adolescents, making it a prevalent substance that is both affordable and mixed with other substances, heightening its unpredictability. The risks associated with ketamine use range from severe bladder problems to mental health disorders, contributing to a concerning trend in the community.
The impact of ketamine transcends individual harm, extending to schools, families, and emergency services. Schools grapple with disengaged students and cognitive impairments due to drug use, while families suffer from the effects of personality changes in their children. Furthermore, local emergency services are burdened with an increase in ketamine-related incidents, from overdoses to violent outbreaks. The normalization of ketamine use on social media platforms like TikTok and Snapchat further exacerbates the issue, portraying drug use as entertainment rather than a serious public health concern. These alarming developments necessitate urgent action by authorities to address the escalating crisis and protect the future of Liverpool’s youth
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