Spiking ‘first assist’ package issued forward of Christmas season – all it is advisable to know

The public is being urged to learn “spiking first aid” to help anyone affected during the Christmas party season.

St John Ambulance said people should learn the basics of what to do in cases of spiking, which is when someone gives another person alcohol or drugs without their knowledge or consent.

It comes after the Labour government last week announced it will create a new criminal offence for spiking as part of its plans to reduce violence against women and girls. Ministers will roll out spiking training to venues, such as pubs, bars and clubs, to train 10,000 people by March on how to prevent spiking and to support victims.

Spiking can involve putting alcohol or drugs into drinks; needle spiking, where people are injected; or vape or cigarette spiking, where drugs are put into these products. Symptoms of spiking include feeling drunk or drowsy, being “out of it” or more drunk than expected, mental confusion, slurred speech, memory loss, loss of inhibitions, nausea, vomiting and breathing problems. Victims may also suffer muscle spasms or seizures, loss of consciousness or a severe hangover after drinking little or no alcohol.

In new advice, St John said victims should be kept hydrated by encouraging them to drink water little and often, put in a safe place and always have somebody with them. If a person thinks they have been spiked, they or a friend should alert bar staff and the police, including reporting any suspicious behaviour.

If the victim becomes unresponsive, others should put them in the recovery position and call an ambulance. Members of the public should also know how to do CPR in case somebody stops breathing.

Some 23% of 18 to 43-year-olds felt they had “definitely” been spiked, rising to 41% when those who believed they had “possibly” been spiked were added, polling for St John’s found.

Keir Starmer last Monday called police, transport and hospitality chiefs into Downing Street demanding better protection for women in the build-up to Christmas. The PM said: “Cracking down on spiking is central to that mission.

“We know it can be incredibly difficult for victims to come forward to report this awful crime, and these cases can be very hard to prosecute. We must do more to bring the vile perpetrators who carry out this cowardly act, usually against young women and often to commit a sexual offence, to justice.”

Dr Lynn Thomas, St John’s medical director, said: “Our latest research shows this awful crime continues to blight people’s social lives when they are simply wanting to go out and enjoy time together.

“While we fully support all efforts to prevent and prosecute spiking incidents, St John aims to teach people how to care for one another when the worst happens. Recognising the symptoms of spiking is a critical first step in that care and will help protect victims from further harm.

“Staying with a spiking victim, monitoring them and being ready to give first aid could save their life. We’re urging people to equip themselves with that knowledge.”