Spiking is when someone gives another person a substance without that person’s knowledge or consent. These substances can be injected into a person using a syringe, but more commonly are added to a person’s drink. Shots of alcohol can be added to drinks to make them stronger, causing someone to get drunk quicker than expected, or sometimes a drink can be contaminated with drugs that are intended to incapacitate someone.

There are many reasons why someone should choose to spike someone but the most common are:

• Amusement (for a laugh)
• Robbery/theft
• Assault
• Cause injury
• Sexual assault

If there is any concern of sexual assault, local sexual assualt referral centres can offer advice and signposting to sexual health services.

Devon & Cornwall SARCs offer a 24 hour information line 0300 303 4626. Professionals can also contact the service and make referrals.

For more information, see sarchelp.co.uk

Or see our ‘disclosure after sexual assault’ guide.