What is Spiking?

Spiking is when someone adds alcohol or drugs to your drink or body without your knowledge or consent. This could happen through drinks, injections, cigarettes, vapes, food or other methods.

We are there to make sure Leeds city centre is a safe, comfortable and fun space for all women.

Local support is available from the Police, Street Marshalls, Women’s Night Safe Space and Angels of Freedom.

Know the Signs

Everyone reacts differently signs of spiking can include:

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

Where to Get Help

In the Moment

• Tell a trusted friend, venue staff, or security.
• If you suspect your drink was spiked, keep the drink for possible testing – but do not drink any more of it.
• Move to a safe space and ask for help contacting the police.
• If someone becomes very unwell—vomiting, drowsy, or hallucinating —call an ambulance.
• Local support is available from the police, Street Marshalls, Women’s Night Safe Space and Angels of Freedom, visit the Night Safe Leeds website for more information.

Know Your Rights

Afterwards

Whether or not you report to the police, support is available. Spiking can have long-term effects, and you don’t have to face it alone.

Support is available 24/7 through your Local Victim Support team who can help you to:

• Understand your rights and the services you’re entitled to.
• Explore ways to cope.
• Connect you with services and support networks.

Visit their website for more details.

Reporting to the Police

If you choose to report, the police may ask:

• What happened?
• Where and when did it happen?
• Do you know who might have done it?

Other Ways to Report

• The venue
• Leeds City Council Entertainment Licensing
• SIA (Security Industry Authority) if it involves a security staff member

You can also anonymously share your experience using the WalkSafe App via the “How was your experience?” feature.

We encourage reporting to the police to help tackle spiking for everyone.

Stop the Spike Trained Venues

These venues have taken part in DrinkSafe Spike Awareness Training and have been supplied with a stock of Anti-Spiking Drink Covers and Early Indicator Spiking Detection Test Kits.

Venues:

• The Pack Horse Hyde Park
• The Eldon
• The Marriot Hotel
• Headroom House
• Popworld
• NYLAS Bar
• Howard Assembly Rooms
• Backroom
• Queens Court
• The Wardrobe
• Mint Warehouse

Downloadable Resources Links