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.
Three people injured in crash on main road between Morecambe and Lancaster
"No need to panic buy' says Morecambe MP amid worries over vehicle fuel
Multi-coloured art basketball court to be launched in Morecambe park
Lancaster man jailed for making indecent images of children after police find hidden laptop
Morecambe FC "continues to face serious financial pressures"
Councillor hits back at Lancaster MP saying potholes attack was "bizarre pantomime"
Lancaster and Morecambe employers sign up for Fair Work Charter
Furniture charity with warehouse in Morecambe announces closure
Council chief exec apologies for ‘teething problems’ during new bin collection roll out
Educators visit Cornwall site to help shape Eden Project Morecambe
Second date announced for Winter Gardens Eric Morecambe centenary show
Carnforth-based holiday park operator donates £100,000 to Lancaster hospice
Morecambe filling station remains closed as supermarket 'monitors stock levels'
Lancaster Music Co-op prepares £100k Arts Council bid to help overcome funding shortfall
Warning for patients in Lancaster and Morecambe district as resident doctors set to strike next week
Date announced for Morecambe Pride
LISTEN: Forces veterans to cycle between Carlisle and Morecambe football grounds
New plans for Morecambe trade park aim to attract local businesses
Lancaster University invites local groups to bid for share of £20K fund
Community rallies round as Lancaster charity building remains closed after wall collapse
