GMP Salford distribute 100 spiking kits across the night-time economy in Irlam and Cadishead

In a dedicated effort to enhance public safety during the festive season, Greater Manchester Police Officers, and Police Community Support Officers (PCSO’s) in Irlam and Cadishead in Salford have been out educating bars, clubs and punters about the serious risks associated with drink spiking.

Officers have been proactively patrolling during the night-time economy distributing valuable information and providing practical advice. As part of this initiative, approximately 100 free spiking kits were distributed in the local area to protect and reduce the likelihood of drink spiking incidents across the local area.

PCSO’s Mark Hutton and Paul Greenhalgh emphasised the collaboration between the police and local licensees, saying: "Irlam and Cadishead officers have worked closely with pub, club, and bar licensees to raise awareness on drink spiking. The district's longstanding Pub Watch scheme, established in 2013, reflects our commitment to addressing community issues collectively. Salford’s West District has had around 15 reported cases this year; however, it is acknowledged that the actual number is likely higher. 97% of victims don’t report drink spiking incidents to the police for reasons such as delayed realisation, lack of awareness about the reporting process, and fear of disbelief. With this in mind, we urge anyone who suspects they've been a victim of spiking to report it to us even if you’re not sure you have been.”

The distributed kits contain reusable plastic caps and glass covers designed to safeguard drink bottles and glasses from tampering. Easily portable in a purse, handbag or pocket, the kits also include StopTopps foil lids for drinks to deter perpetrators, strips for detecting spiked drinks, a personal attack alarm, and additional safety features.

Marcelle Steer, landlady of the White Horse and supporter of the Irlam and Cadishead Pub and Club Watch Scheme said: “Anything that can help to keep people safe when enjoying a night out can only be a good thing. Sadly, there are those out there that are only interested in themselves. Let’s hope that this advice and support keeps everyone safe this Christmas.”

Police Officers Abram and Raistrick from GMP Salford district added: “Sadly it happens all too often that women or men who have just gone out with their friends or even family, on a night out potentially face having their drinks ‘spiked’ by unscrupulous individuals or gangs. The consequences could end up being devastating for those involved and this campaign aims to make people more aware of the issue of drink spiking and typical methods.”

GMP want to make it clear that drink spiking is never the fault of the victim, and everyone should be able to enjoy a night out without fear of spiking. However, there are some preventive measures below that everyone should be aware of, that may help to reduce the risk.

Report and Support

There is no time limit on reporting spiking; whether it just happened or occurred a while ago, individuals are encouraged to come forward.

If you or someone you know has been spiked, you can report incidents through the GMP website LiveChat on our 'report' page or by calling 101.

In case of emergency, always call 999.

You can also report online using our online reporting portal.

This reporting portal will help you report spiking offences, including drink spiking, needle spiking, food spiking, vape or e-cigarette spiking, or an attempted spiking.

You can also report crimes that happened because of a spiking incident, such as sexual assault, theft or violent offences using this service.

For more information on medical help and support organisations that can support you, please visit our support page.