154 venues across Bristol have signed up to support the city-wide partnership against drink spiking, alongside Avon and Somerset Police, Bristol City Centre BID, Bristol Nights and Bristol City Council.
154 venues across Bristol have signed up to support the city-wide partnership against drink spiking, alongside Avon and Somerset Police, Bristol City Centre BID, Bristol Nights and Bristol City Council.
Bristol’s Nighttime Economy Advisor, Carly Heath explains:
“The launch of our anti-spiking campaign in November had a fantastic response from venue teams and the public alike. Bristol’s collaborative approach demonstrates the strength of our nightlife communities, empowering our after-dark workforce with the tools and training to tackle this abhorrent crime. As an industry we are dedicated to taking a stand against the perpetrators of drink spiking, enhancing safety procedures across the city and working together with the police to catch those intent on tampering with drinks.
“The feedback from night time audiences has been overwhelmingly positive. People feel that they are being listened to, believed, and supported should an incident happen. I’m thrilled that in such a short time we are already seeing results.”
Each of the 154 venues have received a pack containing a procedure guide for bar and security teams, drink testing kits and campaign materials to put up in key areas of the venue.
Chief Inspector Lorna Dallimore, drink spiking lead at Avon and Somerset Police said:
“In recent months, we have recorded a rise in drink spiking reports reflecting a growing awareness for this type of incident, which was the primary aim of this partnership. We also wanted to increase understanding of early evidence gathering, as well as highlighting the importance of relevant testing to boost the chances of obtaining a prosecution.
“Whilst we’re encouraged by the positive responses to the campaign, we are aware that drink spiking remains at high risk of going un-reported by victims for a number of different reasons. I would urge anyone who suspects their drink has been spiked to contact the police by calling 101 as soon as possible. Always call 999 in an emergency. If you’re on a night out with friends and suspect your drink has been spiked, please see help from the venue staff and/or seek emergency care as soon as possible.”
The campaign has also led to the team consulting with the home office and influencing national police policy, sharing best practice into the coordination of a nationwide response from all police forces. Bristol City Centre BID is coordinating the response alongside Bristol City Council.
Director of BIDs Keith Rundle explains;
“The campaign has been a great illustration of how working together can quickly and effectively make a real difference in improving safety. Moving forward, we want to continue this narrative, ensuring that the night-time economy is recognised as a safe and supported sector in all respects and for all people and communities.
“This campaign and the Bristol Rules means Bristol is increasingly recognised as a safe place to
enjoy nights out in our fantastic range of venues, remaining vigilant and working together to focus on the perpetrators and take care of those suffering from these crimes we will deliver a safer night time for everyone.”
