The Wastewater Analysis for Narcotics Detection (WAND) programme uses wastewater analysis to provide robust and timely estimates of drug consumption. The method is used internationally and is based on measuring drug analytes excreted by the body that enter wastewater systems. Since 2021, the programme has collected samples from wastewater treatment plants across England and Scotland. Wastewater analysis provides an independent source of evidence on drug use that complements established data sources, such as survey data, seizures and intelligence, and helps address known gaps in self‑reported measures of drug use. Reports in this collection present estimates of consumption and trends for selected drugs, including cocaine, ketamine, heroin, MDMA, amphetamine and methamphetamine. The findings provide evidence-based insights that can support targeted interventions, inform public policy, and contribute to a better understanding of substance use dynamics across the UK.

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The report published in October 2026 presents the latest findings from the Wastewater Analysis for Narcotics Detection (WAND) programme. It updates the 2021 to 2026 trend analysis for 6 key drugs: cocaine, ketamine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA, and heroin. The trend analysis is based on samples from 16 English sites monitored consistently since 2021. Cocaine remained the most consumed of the 6 key drugs, while estimated ketamine consumption decreased by 11% between 2025 and 2026 after several years of sustained growth. For phase 3, from August 2024 to March 2026, the report updates regional patterns of relatively high or low estimated consumption across all monitored sites. For the first time, it also reports where and when 18 additional drugs, beyond the 6 key drugs, were detected during phase 3.

See also, spreadsheet - Wastewater Analysis for Narcotics Detection (WAND) Programme: additional drugs detected data tables, August 2024 to March 2026