Drink-spiking is set to become a specific criminal offence.

Drink-spiking is set to become a specific criminal offence. From today offendors are more likely to be jailed. The aim is to simplify the current system where spiking mainly comes under assault.

Workers across the night-time economy will be taught how to prevent incidents, support victims and help cops collect evidence. This will allow officers to provide a quicker and more effective response for victims. The training will be rolled out to 10,000 bar staff by the end of the year.

Around 7,000 incidents were reported in England and Wales last year but the real figure is thought to be much higher.

Keir Starmer said: “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. I made a promise that, if elected, I’d make spiking a new criminal offence. Today, I am proud to have come good on that pledge. I will bring together police chiefs, heads of industry and transport b osses to demand coordinated action to stop women being targeted, whether they are out with friends or simply travelling home. Cracking down on spiking is central to that mission.

“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.”

Home Office minister Jess Philips added: “Spiking is a diabolical act.While the risk may be heightened during the festive season, it’s a threat that exists year-round.”

This is real progress and has been achieved in huge part by the Stamp Out Spiking campaign which is run by the charismatic and energetic Dawn Dines. We recently interviewed Dawn on a visit to Manchester before The Mancbeth event. She is inspiring and her work in the field WILL save lives. Here she is in action.