Police and partner agencies in Lancaster are to take part in a new Home Office funded pilot project aimed at improving the response to spiking reports.
The aim of the scheme is to increase the number of urine samples obtained from victims following a suspected spiking incident.
The project, named Project Alliance, is being led by the National Centre for Violence Against Women and Girls and Public Protection (NCVPP) and is also running in areas of Northumbria and Nottinghamshire, as well as Lancashire.
It will involve encouraging people who suspect they have been spiked to come forward and provide potential evidence using special sample collection kits.
According to Home Office statistics, approximately only 8% of reported spiking incidents across the UK result in a forensic sample being taken and submitted for testing.
The new pilot, which runs until then end of May, aims to improve this by making tests more readily available. At present, they are only available from the police and NHS but from Wednesday, they will be available from more locations including local health centres, nighttime economy locations including hotels and nightclubs, along with support from some colleges and Universities.
It is hoped that by increasing testing, Police can build up a better picture of where offences may be taking place and ultimately increase prosecutions by bringing perpetrators to justice.
Detective Chief Superintendent Claire Hammond, VAWG delivery lead at the NCVPP, said: “We hope that by providing direct access to testing we will empower victims with a choice over the support they receive and help them get answers. If something doesn’t feel right, then please seek support and come forward for a test.
“Spiking has a significant impact of feelings of safety, particularly for women and girls, and we are absolutely focused on tackling it.
‘’It is, therefore, crucial that we know and understand when and where it is happening, so we can use that intelligence to prevent further cases and disrupt offenders.”
Detective Chief Inspector Abi Finch-Hall, from Lancashire Police said: “We understand how distressing and confusing it can be if you think you’ve been spiked, and we want everyone to feel confident coming forward. This new pilot is here to strengthen our response to spiking reports in Lancashire.
“Being spiked can leave you feeling frightened, distressed, or unsure about what happened. The emotional impact can last long after the incident itself, and many people need time, support, and reassurance to feel safe again.
“By taking part in this initiative and having our partners by our side, we hope to provide alternative opportunities for people who suspect that they may have been spiked, to find a pathway to provide a sample.
‘’This will only strengthen our investigative response to spiking reports and make towns and cities across Lancaster a safer place.
“If you believe you’ve been a victim of spiking, please come and collect a test. We’re here to listen, to support you and to help you get the answers you need. Nobody should ever feel alone in this, and support is available whenever you’re ready.”
For advice and support, click here
You can also report incidents directly to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.
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