Lancaster is part of a pilot scheme designed to improve access to support for victims of drink spiking.
The scheme allows people who think they may have been spiked to access forensic testing away from a police station, helping remove barriers to getting help.
If you think you’ve been spiked, you can report it to the police online or by phone, you do not have to visit a police station. After reporting, you will receive a reference number.
With this number, you can choose to have a forensic urine test through the police, or at a police approved independent partner sites.
The forensic test is a simple urine sample. Some substances leave the body quickly, sometimes within 12 hours), so it’s important to test as soon as possible. Testing is usually only possible within 96 hours of the incident.
Samples taken at partner sites are supported by trained staff and sent to a police laboratory. Results can take two to three weeks to come back, and participants will be updated on the results by the officer assigned to your case.
A spokesperson for Lancaster Area Police said: ‘’If no substances are found, this does not mean you weren’t spiked. Many drugs pass through the body quickly or may not be detectable.
‘’However, this test remains the most effective method currently available to help understand what, if anything, was used.
‘’Your report helps us to better understand spiking and how we can prevent it from happening to someone else. That’s why it’s important to report it to us, even if you don't think that there's any evidence or you don't want us to investigate. You're in control.’’
You can pick up a test from Lancaster University Security Lodge - Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, 24 hours a day.
You can also get them from Generation Nightclub on Brock St, and The Sugarhouse, when the venues are open.
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