Chemsex: From London Trend to Rural Reality

In 2015, a new word entered the public health conversation: chemsex.

It was coined by consultant David Stuart at London’s Dean Street Clinic, who noticed an emerging pattern. A growing number of HIV diagnoses among gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men (MSM) were linked to parties and group sex sessions where three specific drugs kept appearing: crystal methamphetamine (crystal meth), gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), and mephedrone (meph).

David Stuart’s insight went beyond simply identifying the drugs involved. He recognised recurring themes in the lives of people attending these sessions - shame, isolation within the gay community, body image pressures, and low self-esteem. He designed strategies and interventions to support people whose relationships with sex and drugs were becoming harmful, creating a blueprint for services across the UK.

Not a New Idea - But a New Pattern

Of course, sex on drugs wasn’t new. But this specific combination of drugs, behaviours, and risks was a marked trend - and in 2015, it was seen as a “big city” issue.

Here in the South West, anecdotal reports from our service users suggested crystal meth and GHB were rare. Getting hold of them often meant a deliberate trip to London or Manchester, or knowing someone who could make the connection. For most, it wasn’t part of the local party scene.

The Drift from City to Countryside

Fast-forward a few years, and the picture has shifted. These drugs have gradually made their way into the South West, appearing in larger cities first before filtering into rural areas.

Now, it’s not unusual to open Grindr or another app at 3 a.m. in a place as remote as Somerset or North Devon and see people describing themselves as “high n’ horny”, “looking for Tina”, or “up for a cup of tea” - all well-known code for crystal meth.

What was once a niche, urban phenomenon has quietly embedded itself in towns and villages, far from the neon lights of London.

From Party to Problem

Over the years, The Eddystone Trust's Chemsex Support service has worked with people whose lives have been completely transformed - and sometimes derailed - by chemsex addiction.

For some, the change is sudden and can be devastating. For others, it creeps in quietly. What might begin as an occasional “recreational” puff of T or shot of G can become more frequent, more expected, and more risky. And sometimes, people don’t even fully understand what they’re taking, let alone the effects or potential dangers.

Our Approach at Eddystone

Chemsex support isn’t just about helping people who are already in crisis. It’s also about:

• Raising awareness — so people can make informed decisions before any harm happens.

• Providing accurate information — cutting through the myths and mixed messages.

• Spotting the signs early — recognising when something that feels fun or harmless is starting to get out of control.

• Offering non-judgemental support — whether someone wants to stop entirely, reduce harm, or simply explore their relationship with chemsex.

For some, reaching out to us is the first step in regaining control over their life. For others, it’s about feeling seen, heard, and understood without stigma.

A Changing Landscape

The chemsex scene has changed dramatically in the last decade — and so has where it’s happening. It’s no longer a “big city” trend. It’s here in the South West, in our towns, and even in our rural communities.

That’s why talking about it, openly and without judgement, matters more than ever.

At Eddystone, our work doesn’t stop with individual support. We also deliver bespoke training for organisations - from health and social care providers to community groups and frontline services - equipping teams to better understand chemsex, the drugs involved, and the unique needs of those affected. This training helps professionals spot early warning signs, engage in informed conversations, and connect people with the right support before harm escalates.

If you think this interest might be of interest to you please visit our chemsex training page on the following link: click here

If you're involved with the chems scene and feel you might want to connect with us please visit our chems pages by clicking here

Whether you’re an individual seeking help, or an organisation wanting to strengthen your response to this complex issue, we’re here to work with you.