In response to the worrying increase in spiking cases at the cities bars, clubs and restaurants, Leeds introduced a new initiative to prevent these incidents. This move is particularly crucial as pedestrian activity spikes during the holidays. The “Stop the Spike” campaign produced by Women Friendly Leeds and Leeds City Council seeks to educate the public on the safety of women and girls. It further prepares venues with the necessary resources to keep themselves safe and protected.
Spiking is a criminal offense, making spikers eligible for up to 10 years in prison. This deeply concerning trend has been a major worry for students and youth. Shreena Gobey is the inclusive night safe space coordinator for Women Friendly Leeds. She noted that in past months of conversations with the city’s universities, spiking emerged as a key concern.
The program trains hospitality staff at over 40 participating venues across the city. This training equips them with the skills to spot and react appropriately to potential cases of spiking. Be aware of signs someone has been spiked. These effects can range from sudden confusion, vomiting, hallucinations, and loss of balance or coordination, to blurred vision and trouble speaking clearly, up to blackouts or memory loss in extreme cases.
Shreya Gobey from NAAEE reiterated the need to establish an atmosphere where people feel comfortable and educated.
“Sometimes people can be worried to come forward, they think they had a lot to drink – that can reduce the likelihood of reporting formally to police or getting help.” – Shreena Gobey, night safe space coordinator for Women Friendly Leeds.
Megan Childs, manager of the Wardrobe bar, said she was optimistic about the campaign’s potential to reduce spiking incidents. She pointed to the measures implemented ahead of time at the venues as a show of good faith. For one, they offer beverage covers that notify customers if someone’s drugged their drink.
“We have covers on tables so people can grab and use them, they stick on top of drinks and you can notice if somebody has tampered with them.” – Megan Childs, Wardrobe bar manager.
Childs underscored the campaign’s aim of promoting an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe and welcome in public spaces.
“It is all about creating a safe space.” – Megan Childs, Wardrobe bar manager.
Councillor Asghar Khan of Leeds City Council echoed their sentiments, praising the initiative as being necessary due to the widespread nature of spiking across the country.
“Sadly, spiking is a national problem and we want to make sure that everyone who goes out in Leeds is aware of what signs to look out for and that there is support around.” – Councillor Asghar Khan.
As part of the “Stop the Spike” initiative the CDC is working to raise awareness. It promotes honest conversations about the crisis and contributes to lowering the stigma that it carries. Gobey hopes that by doing so, it will inspire people to stand up for their right to be safe no matter how much alcohol they drink.
“Hopefully it’ll make everybody think – even if they have had a fair old bit to drink – they should still say they have every right to not be spiked.” – Shreena Gobey, night safe space coordinator for Women Friendly Leeds.
