“I thought I was going to die, I thought I was going to be a statistic.”
The words of a man at the heart of a powerful new campaign aiming to confront the growing use of ketamine among young people.
Organisations across the region have joined forces to launch ‘I Wish Someone Had Told Me’, a hard-hitting, deeply personal campaign designed not just to inform, but to connect. At its core are real stories; raw, honest accounts from those who have experienced the impact of ketamine use first-hand.
Central to the campaign is a documentary-style film, “Bradley’s Story”. In it, Bradley, a former ketamine user from Rhyl, speaks candidly about how his drug use began, what drew him in, and the devastating consequences that followed. His journey, from early use to addiction and ultimately recovery, offers a rare and unfiltered insight into the realities behind what is often perceived as a “harmless drug”.
His story is supported by a series of striking campaign messages drawn from real-life experiences. Quotes from young people and their parents and carers – such as “I wish someone had told me I’d end up dropping out of university” feature across social media, print and digital platforms. These messages are designed to spark conversations and encourage reflection before experimentation turns into something more serious.
The campaign is a collaborative effort between North Wales Police, Adferiad Mental Health and Addiction Support Services, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Public Health Wales, The Wallich, House of The Vivienne, Flintshire Sorted, In2change, Barnardos, Be’ Di’r Sgôr, and other partners. Together, we aim to raise awareness of the hidden dangers of ketamine, support early intervention, and ultimately prevent the long-term harm associated with its use.
The rise in use of the Class B drug, particularly among young people has been widely publicised in the media in recent years – with emergency department admissions linked to ketamine in North Wales rising from 241 in 2023, to 372 in 2024, and 412 in 2025. It comes as no surprise that the impact this increased use is having on public sector organisations as well as drug and alcohol support services is widespread.
Through powerful storytelling, community outreach, and attention-grabbing content, this campaign puts real voices front and centre, reminding audiences that behind every statistic is a story.
“Ketamine misuse is having a devastating impact on young people across North Wales, and we are seeing first-hand the serious risks it poses to their health, safety, and future.
“By sharing these real experiences and clear information, we hope to encourage early conversations, early intervention, and ultimately prevent lives from being damaged.
“This work would not be possible without the commitment of our partner agencies, who bring their expertise, compassion and determination to tackling this issue from every angle. I want to thank each organisation involved for their continued dedication in helping us protect our young people and support those who need it most.”
Dr Jane Moore, Executive Director of Public Health at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: “Clinicians across our services in North Wales have seen a large increase in the number of patients with conditions linked to ketamine, including young people who have developed lasting and life-changing physical and mental health issues.
“It is vital that young people and parents can get clear, honest information about the harm ketamine can cause from places they can trust – and that’s why we are working with other organisations across North Wales to support this important prevention campaign.”
Mike Cooper, Youth Work Co-ordinator at In2change, Wrexham’s young person’s drug and alcohol team, said: “We’ve seen a worrying increase in the number of young people referred to our service with ketamine listed as the primary substance – a trend that’s grown significantly between 2021 and 2025. In response, we’re working closely with partner agencies to tackle the issue head-on.
“Our approach includes delivering universal drug education sessions in schools across Wrexham, offering tailored one-to-one support that takes a holistic view of each young person’s needs, and providing practical advice around harm reduction, relapse prevention, and staying safe.
“We also collaborate with Adult Services to support those aged 18 and over, run diversionary activities to offer positive alternatives, and deliver specialist training to professionals so they’re better equipped to respond to ketamine-related concerns. Together, we’re committed to helping young people make informed choices and stay safe.”
Parents and carers are encouraged to speak with their children about the dangers of ketamine use. You can learn about the campaign and watch Bradley’s Story on Adfeiriad’s website.
If you, or someone you know is struggling with ketamine addiction, or wants to know more, you can visit the DAN 24/7 website
The Wallich’s Drug and Alcohol Wellbeing Service delivers open access drug and alcohol support across Wrexham and Flintshire, and Conwy and Denbighshire.
Our Ketamine Support Group is a safe, understanding space for people using ketamine to share and learn. Every Wednesday 6pm – 7pm, at Ty Croeso, 31A Grosvenor Road, Wrexham, LL11 1BT