How have universities taken action on spiking?

The guidance has been positively received by the sector and has already been used by universities to inform and improve their responses to the issue.

Here are just a few examples of how universities have taken action.

The nature of spiking means it can be very difficult for victims to know afterwards what has happened to them, and like many crimes, spiking is significantly under-reported to the police.

However, data published by the National Police Chiefs’ Council shows that there were just under 5,000 reports of spiking from September 2021 to August 2022. Of those, approximately half reported spiking by needle, and 43% were reports of drink spiking.

The figures show that the majority of reports (64%) happened on weekends and 59% take place in pubs, bars and clubs. The data also shows that the average age of those who reported spiking incidents is 27, with the majority of victims (74%) identifying as female.

Middlesex University students produced a spiking campaign film, ‘What happened to you last night?’, to support the launch of the spiking practice note.

The film aims include raising awareness of spiking and addressing barriers to reporting, encouraging victims and witnesses to report spiking incidents. It emphasises the aftereffects and impact of spiking on victims.

Middlesex University has also taken action in other areas:

The University of Exeter has responded to the practice note by improving its communications to students about spiking and providing further training, advice and resources.

Nottingham Trent University is building on its work on student safety and working with partners.

Police information on spiking

You can find information about the effects of spiking and how to report it on the UK policing website.

Best Bar None

Best Bar None is an accreditation scheme backed by the Home Office and the drinks industry. It aims to improve standards in alcohol licensed premises, such as  bars and clubs in students’ unions.

The scheme can help universities demonstrate and promote their commitment to student safety. An independent, specialist assessor conducts an annual on-site assessment. The assessment recognises best practice in responsible venue management, including managing safety and vulnerability, while offering advice and guidance for continuous improvement through a post assessment report. 

For more information, visit the Best Bar None website or email bbn.admin@bestbarnone.com.

Spike Aware UK

Spike Aware UK is a registered charity made up of people who have either been victims of spiking or had their lives impacted in some way by spiking.

The charity was started in 2017 by Colin and Mandy Mackie following the sudden and tragic death of their son Greg Mackie. Greg died as a result of his drink being spiked.

Spike Aware UK aims to provoke action to prevent drink and needle spiking crime happening in the UK, including local and national campaigning. It also provides support to victims.

For more information, visit the Spike Aware website.