s the festive season approaches and our cities come alive with Christmas celebrations, it’s the perfect time to talk about safety, awareness, and education. For many, nights out with friends, colleagues, and family are highlights of the year and we do not want this to be tarnished by the hidden and devastating crime of spiking.
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At Stamp Out Spiking (SOS), our mission is simple but urgent – to make the UK a place where everyone can enjoy themselves safely, and where victims of spiking are believed, supported, and protected by law.
Founded in concept over two decades ago, Stamp Out Spiking has grown into the UK’s leading charity dedicated to tackling all forms of spiking – whether it’s through drinks, vapes, food, or other methods. Our work combines awareness campaigns, accredited training, research partnerships, and advocacy that is shaping national and international policy. We’ve collaborated with police forces, local authorities, the hospitality and events industry, and universities to bring about systemic change.
Our campaigning has directly contributed to the inclusion of spiking as a standalone criminal offence within the new Police and Crime Bill currently progressing through Parliament — a milestone for victim safeguarding and justice.
What to look out for
Spiking can take many forms. It isn’t limited to adding substances to someone’s drink. It can involve vapes, edibles, or even extra alcohol – such as slipping someone a double when they asked for and expected a single. This too is a form of spiking, because it removes consent and control. Recognising the signs early is critical:
• Sudden drowsiness, confusion, loss of balance or consciousness.
• Feeling drunker than expected for the amount consumed.
• Memory loss or blackouts.
• Nausea or vomiting that feels out of proportion or sudden loss of bladder control.
If you suspect someone has been spiked, never leave them alone, alert venue staff immediately, and seek medical help. Keep any remaining drink for testing and, where possible, contact the police as soon as
Standing together to stamp out
possible. If you don't feel comfortable doing this, you can always contact us at
info@stampoutspiking.org
Working together for safer spaces
This year, SOS has worked with a broad range of partners – from Bauer Media, who helped deliver national awareness campaigns such as Keep an Eye Out and If Only, to Cardiff University, with whom we ran the national survey that helped reveal the true scale and impact of spiking across the UK.
We’ve also hosted the first national Spiking Roundtable at Westminster, bringing together police forces, transport providers, councils, and hospitality leaders to collaborate on solutions. The positivity and innovation that emerged – from taxi and train operators to licensing authorities and drinks producers – signal real hope for the future.
Internationally, SOS has shared best practice at events such as the Spiking Prevention Roundtable in Prague, and visited Boston, USA, to meet with senators, local authorities, police, and legislators to explore global approaches to tackling spiking.
A new national helpline for victims
Despite the progress, one gap remains stark: immediate support for victims. Many people who have been spiked are left confused, frightened, and unsure where to turn. That’s why we’re now working to launch the UK’s first national helpline and advice service for spiking victims.
This helpline will provide confidential advice, practical guidance, and emotional support, ensuring that no one faces the aftermath of spiking alone. It will also connect callers with trained professionals and local services, helping victims navigate reporting, testing, and recovery.
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We are currently seeking funding partners to make this life-changing service a reality in 2026 – a step that will bring together everything Stamp Out Spiking stands for: prevention, protection, and empowerment.
Making Safety Everyone’s Responsibility spiking
As we head into the Christmas season – one of the busiest times for nightlife – we’re asking everyone to be vigilant and look out for one another. Safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you work in the industry or are simply enjoying a night out, being aware and informed can prevent harm and save lives.
Together, through education, collaboration, and compassion, we can change the culture around spiking and ensure that every celebration is remembered for the right reasons.
If you would like to support our work then you can do this by becoming a member
https://stampoutspiking.org/become-a- member/ or we kindly accept fundraising ideas or donations at
https://stampoutspiking.org/donate/ to enable us to continue our work educating about spiking and supporting victims.
Our accredited, industry-leading spiking awareness training can be tailored for your team and industry, enabling everyone to be educated to safeguard against spiking in all its forms.
To learn more about Stamp Out Spiking’s campaigns, training, and how to support the new helpline, please visit
www.stampoutspiking.org
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