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Stamp Out Spiking

Last week, on the 15th July, it was stamp out spiking day. Spiking refers to the act of substances, such as drugs or alcohol to another person without their consent.

Insights from the 2025 Drink Aware Monitor

  1. A significant majority of UK adults associate adding illegal drugs (88%) and prescription medications (82%) to someone’s drink without their consent as forms of spiking.
  2. Nearly half of the UK adults (both 47%) also regonise topping up someone’s drink without their awareness and serving someone a stronger measure without their knowledge as acts of spiking.
  3. In 2025, it was estimated that 1.8% of UK adults aged 18-85 felt like they had fallen victim to drink spiking.
  4. People believed that spiking most likely to happen: at a bar (41%), at a social event (26%), at nightclubs (25%) and other (8%)
  5. Of those who suspected they were spiked, only 23% choose to report the incident to the police. Upon investigating, the reasons for not reporting can include, belief that the police would not take action (39%) or the inability to clearly remember the events (38%

Preventive Measures

  1. Watch your drink; Keep it in sight and don’t leave in unattended. Take it with you or ask a trusted friend to watch it.
  2. Buy your own drinks; Purchase your own and watch them being prepared. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
  3. Use drink protectors; Consider using devices that prevent tampering with your drink.
  4. Stay with friends; Go out in groups and look out for each other, especially in unfamiliar places.
  5. Be cautious with punch bowls; Avoid communal drinks, as they can be easier targets for spiking.
  6. For every alcoholic drink you have, have one glass of water.

Recognised the Signs

  1. Changes in your drink (appearance, smell, taste): Do not consume it and pour it out.
  2. Physical symptoms (dizziness, confusion, unusual intoxication); seek help immediately.

What do to when you think you’ve been spiked?

  1. Get help; inform a trusted friend or venue staff for assistance
  2. Seek medical attention; If you are unwell or experiencing severe symptoms, seek help right away
  3. Report the incident; Notify the venue staff or police to document the incident

By following these tips and being vigilant, can significantly reduce your risk of being spiked and ensure a safer experience when out socialising. Remember, if you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and seek help.