Stop spiking

Drink spiking is adding a substance to someone’s drink without their knowledge.

Alcohol is the most common substance to be added, but illegal or legal drugs are used as well. Spiking is illegal, and there are a number of different offences that such an action fall under. Drinks are spiked for many reasons, but it is always a crime and should not be tolerated.

Whilst the numbers of such reports remain low, they further underline that the need to ensure the welfare and safety of residents remains a key focus for everyone to work together to protect great nights out.

We take your safety seriously. We know that no blame lies with the victim only the perpetrator and will work to protect all residents from harm. By working together, we can protect safe nights out and maintain safe drinking environments for everyone.

What to do if you think you've been spiked

Common spiking symptoms are

• confusion, lack of coordination
• slurred speech
• nausea
• hallucinations
• vomiting
• paranoia and
• unconsciousness

If you think you or a friend has been spiked, tell a member of staff straight away, seek medical attention & report it to the police.

Be careful of accepting help from strangers and never leave with a person you do not know.

If you need urgent help you should call 999.

If you feel unwell you should go, with someone you trust, to the nearest A&E department. Tell the medical staff that you think you have been spiked.

Make sure you report it to the police as soon as you can. They may ask you to provide urine or blood samples. Most drugs leave the body within 72 hours of being taken but some take only 12 hours so you should get tested as soon as possible.

The Hampshire police have provided drink testing kits to a number of licenced premises across the borough so on site testing can take place.

Keep others safe

If you see a spiking in action you should:

• report it to the bar staff or police
  
• keep the person safe
  
• isolate the drink for evidence
  

Ask for Angela resources for licensed venues

Ask for Angela is a nationally recognised safety initiative that helps people discreetly seek assistance if they feel unsafe, vulnerable, or threatened while visiting licensed premises.

Venues can help create safer environments for customers and demonstrate their commitment to welfare and public safety by promoting and implementing Ask for Angela.

To support venues in implementing the scheme, Ask for Angela provides a range of free resources to launch and run the scheme successfully. The resources include:

• A staff training video
• Training workbook
• Venue posters
• Staff guidance materials
• Implementation checklist

Access the resources and more information on the Ask for Angela website

Spiking is illegal

Drink spiking is illegal and carries a sentence of up to ten years in prison. If other criminal behaviour has taken place, the sentence may be even longer. For rape the penalty can be life imprisonment. Offenders will also be placed on the sex offenders’ register.

Find out where you can get medical help, support and advice and how to report spiking.