News | Thursday, 15th September 2022
Raising awareness on drink spiking
Always watch your drink on a night out
We want you to have fun and feel safe when you are socialising. Unfortunately, not everyone you meet on a night out may be genuine and it's important to take measures to protect yourself when drinking. Here are five ways to prevent your drink some being spiked on a night out.
- Cover your drink – put your thumb over the top of a bottle or, if drinking from a glass, hold it from the top instead of the side – you may also choose to use bottle stoppers or drink covers
- Don’t accept a drink you haven’t seen poured or opened – if someone offers to buy you a drink, go with them to the bar or politely refuse
- Keep your drink in sight and never leave it unattended – it’s too easy for someone to slip something into your glass if you’re not watching
- Avoid drinking or tasting other people's drinks – it’s an easy mistake to make when there are several glasses on a table. Keep your hands on your own drink as much as possible
- Look out for changes in your drink such as excessive bubbles, foggy appearance, sinking ice – if it doesn’t look right, don’t risk it
Report any incidents and get support
If you feel unwell or unsafe, make sure you tell your friends, bar staff, bouncers, or even the Police – it’s important to get help and seek medical advice if you need it.
The Police take reports of drink spiking, and sexual harassment and violence seriously, and you can report incidents by:
- Live Chat at www.gmp.police.uk
- Calling 101 – or 999 in an emergency
Manchester Metropolitan also provides the following support:
- Our Report and Support webpage – you can report anonymously or request support. One of our advisers will be in touch within one working day
- Download the SafeZone App to contact our Campus Support 24/7 (or ring them on: 0161 247 2222). The app also covers the University of Manchester and the University of Salford campuses
- Our Counselling, Mental Health and Wellbeing service
Spiking someone’s drink and/or causing personal injury is a criminal offence and will be subject to Police investigation and possible prosecution. Our University takes such incidents very seriously and will investigate any complaints.
Enjoy socialising and stay safe. We’re here to help if you need us.
