Spiking

SPIKING 

Students may have heard reports of spiking incidents in Durham. This guidance, adapted from the NUS and Girls Night In campaign, explains how to report suspected spiking and where to access support if affected. While concerns have been raised, it is important to note that incidents, particularly injection spiking, are extremely rare. Durham SU is works closely with local police, community partners and the University to monitor the situation.

WHAT IS DRINKS SPIKING?

Drink spiking is a serious crime in the UK, carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. It involves adding alcohol or drugs to someone’s drink without their knowledge, sometimes to make them more vulnerable to theft, assault or sexual violence. Spiking with the intent to facilitate assault, rape or robbery is treated even more seriously, and any sexual activity without consent is always a crime.

Drinks can be spiked with alcohol, illegal drugs, so-called 'date rape' drugs, or prescription medications. It can happen to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and the effects are often more severe when combined with other substances. Because incidents are underreported and there are no official statistics, the true scale is unclear. Recognising the signs and knowing how to support someone affected is important, as the experience can be frightening and disorientating.

WHAT ARE DATE RAPE DRUGS?

Rohypnol (Roofies) and Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) are commonly associated with drink spiking. These drugs can sedate or incapacitate a person, making them more vulnerable to physical or sexual assault. They are typically colourless, odourless and tasteless, meaning it’s unlikely someone would notice a difference in their drink. They usually take effect within 15–30 minutes, last several hours and leave the body quickly, making detection difficult.

Other substances, including recreational drugs such as Ecstasy, LSD, and Ketamine, may also be used to spike drinks. Mixing these drugs with alcohol can be extremely dangerous and may lead to serious medical consequences, from nausea to coma.

SYMPTOMS OF DRINK SPIKING

The effects of drink spiking depend on the substance used, the amount taken, and individual factors such as body size and alcohol consumption. Symptoms can include:

• Lowered inhibitions
• Loss of balance
• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Visual disturbances
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unconsciousness

If you or a friend suddenly feel unwell or more intoxicated than expected, seek help immediately.

WHAT STEPS CAN I TAKE TO STAY SAFE?

Drink spiking can happen in bars, clubs, house parties, and other social settings. If possible here are some steps you can take to stay safe:

• Watch your drink (and your friends’ drinks) being prepared and served

• Keep your drink in your hand and in sight at all times

• Use drink toppers where available to help prevent tampering

• Use drug testing kits if provided, but remember they do not detect all drugs and cannot identify added alcohol

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY DRINK GETS SPIKED?

• Tell someone immediately – inform venue staff and your friends.

• Seek medical help if you feel seriously unwell. Ask staff or a trusted friend to take you to A&E.

• Report the incident to the venue and the police (call 101, or 999 in an emergency). Reporting to the police is usually the best way to access drug testing in County Durham.

• Follow NHS guidance if you suspect needle injection. It can be found here: NHS Needle Advice

REPORTING OPTIONS

• Police – Call 101 (or 999 in an emergency). You can speak with Durham Constabulary’s Police University Liaison Officer or an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) for guidance on the process.

• University – Submit a report under the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy using the official reporting form. This process is separate from criminal proceedings. Durham SMV

• Anonymous reporting (Pincident) – Use the Students’ Union’s anonymous online tool to log incidents in Durham City Centre (not a formal reporting route). Pincident 

SUPPORT OPTIONS

• Your College Student Support Office – Confidential support and help considering reporting options.

• Durham University Counselling Service – Professional counselling, with referrals to specialist services if needed. Durham University Counselling Service

• Durham University Pastoral Support - Chaplaincy support, on a more pastoral level. Durham University Chaplaincy 

• Durham SU Help & Advice – Confidential advice and support with reporting.

• Nightline – Student-run confidential listening service (21:00–07:00 during term). Nightline

• North East SARC Support Service – Offers confidential medical care, counselling, forensic exams and ISVA support, whether or not you report to police. SARC

• Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre (RSACC) – Free confidential counselling and support for those affected by sexual violence. RSACC