Published: Monday 18th December 2023 | 4.15pm
Cannock Chase Council have provided venues with drink spiking kits and are encouraging residents to be vigilant this festive period - and to look out for the signs of drink spiking when socialising in pubs, bars and nightclubs.
Spiking is when someone puts alcohol or drugs into another person’s drink, or their body, without their knowledge or consent.
Members of Cannock and Rugeley Pubwatch scheme have been given drink spiking strips, which have been provided by Cannock Chase Council’s Community Safety Team, and funded by the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, to assist them in determining if there have been any cases of drinks being spiked within their venues.
Some of the signs that someone may have been spiked include being confused or disorientated, difficulty speaking, breathing difficulties or experiencing nausea and vomiting.
Councillor Jo Elson, Portfolio Leader for Community Wellbeing said “Spiking can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Drinks spiked with drugs can make you vulnerable. It can be difficult to tell if your drink has been spiked by taste or smell. The substances used can be colourless and odourless.
“We will be sharing tips on how to stay safe on social media during the festive period so look out for these. However, in the meantime if you’re out celebrating, look after each other and stay safe.”
Anyone with any concerns around drinks spiking when visiting a venue should always bring it to the attention of the venue or the Police.
This initiative supports the Violence Reduction Alliance campaign, Safer Nights, which aims to educate everyone to have a great night out, whilst raising awareness of spiking.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams is Chair of the Violence Reduction Alliance. He said: “This initiative will help to improve people’s safety when enjoying nights out but also ensure businesses are aware of the signs of spiking and how they can assist those affected.
“My office has successfully bid for over £5 million from government funding streams as part of Staffordshire’s preventative approach to reducing anti-social behaviour and violence more broadly. Over £4 million from the Safer Streets and Safety of Women at Night funds has been invested in a range of partnership interventions, such as additional lighting and CCTV, dedicated Safe Spaces and awareness campaigns, designed to help reduce ASB and improve the safety of women and girls.”
More information on spiking and the campaign visit www.violencereductionalliance.co.uk
Photograph:
Drink spiking strips