Leeds launches campaign to tackle drink spiking

New initiative aims to raise awareness and improve safety in nightlife venues

As the festive season approaches, Leeds City Council has introduced the Stop the Spike campaign to address the issue of drink spiking in the city’s nightlife. The campaign seeks to equip venues with training and resources to help staff identify and respond to suspected spiking incidents, while also informing the public about the signs of spiking and available support services.

Understanding spiking and its risks

Spiking involves the addition of alcohol or drugs to a person’s drink or body without their knowledge or consent. This can occur through various means, including drinks, injections, cigarettes, vapes, or food. It is a criminal offence in the UK, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, even if no further assault follows.

Signs of spiking to watch for

People may react differently to being spiked, but common symptoms include:

• Sudden confusion or feeling unwell
• Vomiting
• Hallucinations
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Blackouts or memory loss

Campaign measures and venue involvement

The campaign provides specialist training to nightlife venues across Leeds to help staff recognise and respond to spiking. So far, 24 venues have completed the training, with another 15 signed up. Many venues also offer drink covers to help prevent drink tampering, particularly in city centre locations and along the Otley Run route.

Faye Hopkin, area manager at Headrow House, which has completed the training, stated that the campaign strengthens customer trust and demonstrates a commitment to preventing spiking.

Official statements and support services

Councillor Asghar Khan, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, emphasised the importance of awareness and reporting. He encouraged anyone who suspects they or someone else has been spiked to seek help from friends, venue staff, or security and to report the incident to the police.

Temporary Chief Inspector Rob Hughes of Leeds District highlighted the traumatic impact of spiking, noting that most victims are women. He stressed the importance of early reporting to maximise evidential opportunities and urged the public to remain vigilant for signs of spiking.

Shreena Gobey, Women’s Night Safe Space Coordinator, welcomed the campaign as a positive step towards improving safety and support for people enjoying nights out in Leeds.

Where to find help

Support is available through various local services, including West Yorkshire Police, Leeds City Council, street marshals, Women’s Night Safe Space, and Angels of Freedom. For more information, visit the Night Safe Leeds website.