Durham Constabulary supports National Spiking Campaign ahead of Freshers' Week

Durham Constabulary is backing National Spiking Intensification Week which coincides with the arrival of thousands of freshers at the start of the new university term.

Although Durham is a safe city and there is currently no evidence to identify an issue with spiking in the area, officers and staff regularly engage with the university and attend the Freshers Fair to raise awareness of the issue and encourage anyone who thinks they may have been spiked to report it.

Spiking occurs in many forms which involves giving someone else alcohol or drugs without their knowledge or permission which may include slipping drugs into a person’s drink or even through injections or needles; both of which are a serious crime.

Spiking can also happen amongst friends during pre-drinks where they give someone a double shot when they believe they are receiving a single or ordering a stronger drink at a bar without their knowledge which may be seen by some as some kind of prank carried out between friends, but the reality is very different.

Spiking can have a devastating impact on the victim and severe long-term consequences for the perpetrator. All forms of spiking are illegal and can carry a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment.

Within Durham City, the Police have a longstanding working relationship with partners such as Pubwatch, Durham County Council, Durham University and The City of Durham Parish Council.

Funding has been provided for the Durham City Safety Hub which is based at St Nicholas Church in the Marketplace where individuals are directed to if they believe they have been spiked to seek help and potential testing.

There are also Street Friend Volunteers and additional police officers in the City Centre on an evening on a Wednesday, Friday and Saturday to provide additional support in the Nighttime Economy which are funded by the City of Durham Parish Council and Durham University to make the city feel even safer for residents and visitors.  

Anyone who believes they may have been spiked should speak up as soon as possible, whether that be telling a friend or staff in a venue and everyone is encouraged to reported it to the police immediately to give the best chance of capturing evidence.

We strongly encourage victims to report it either online or by calling 101. If anyone is in immediate danger call 999.

If you’re planning on going out, be aware of your surroundings and make sure to look out for yourself and your friends.