Hospitality trade bodies rally to combat drink spiking

UKHospitality, the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII), and Hospitality Ulster have teamed up to produce a suite of resources aimed at supporting operators in combating drink spiking.

Recent weeks have seen increasing reports of drink spiking, in which substances such as illegal or legal drugs are added to people’s drinks without their knowledge.

The four trade bodies have jointly produced a factsheet that brings together in one place resources to help operators bolster the work they are already doing to ensure venues remain safe places in which to enjoy a night out.

Some venues now offer anti-spiking bottle stoppers and protective drink covers, while some local authorities and police forces are providing drug testing kits.

However, the trade bodies say the main preventative measure remains 'well-trained, vigilant and supportive staff' that know how to respond to situations they witness or which are reported to them.

If an incident does occur, operators are advised to follow these steps: 

• Always act on the report – activate your venue’s safeguarding procedures and act to identify suspects.
• Ensure the health and safety of the affected customer – call the emergency services, ensure they are with trusted friends who will look after them, offer assistance, provide them with a safe space.
• Log and record the incident for the emergency services and in order to take further internal action.

Operators are also being encouraged to make their venues unappealing to those seeking to commit crimes by using posters and social media to urge customers to be vigilant; training staff to identify issues before they arise; and by taking practical and physical measures, such as anti-spiking bottle stoppers.

In a joint statement, UKHospitality, the BBPA, the BII and Hospitality Ulster said: “Drink spiking is a despicable crime and cannot be tolerated. Everyone has a right to feel safe during a night out, which is why as a sector we work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment.

“Although the number of drink spiking reports remain low, any such incidents underline the need to protect the welfare and maintain the safety of customers. It is why we continue to collaborate with the police and other local stakeholders to ensure everyone can enjoy a fun night out.”

The available resources for operators can be found here​​, and include posters, training for staff, advice and guidance as well as a film aimed at supporting vulnerable people, provided by a range of sources including the Night Time Industries Association, CPL Learning, Safer Sounds – WAVE Training, National Pubwatch and the Mayor of London.