University of Bath Society faces spiking allegations: How can Leeds students stay safe?
The University of Bath released a statement after students online raised concerns about drink spiking.
The University of Bath released a statement after students online raised concerns about drink spiking occurring as part of society initiations.
Allegations of drink spiking came as University of Bath students took to TikTok to share that they have heard that some societies were participating in drink spiking as an initiation. The University of Bath Rugby Club was the society that was accused.
The University of Bath did respond to the allegations with a post of their social media platforms. They shared that all students at the university are required to take part in training to tackle bullying and harassment.
Since the allegations the Bath student Union and the Rugby club released a joint statement denying the allegation.
“The University of Bath Rugby Club does not condone, encourage, or accept targeting, coercion, harassment, intimidation, or any behaviour that puts others at risk. We have not organised, promoted, or attempted to arrange any activity of this nature. The University of Bath Rugby Club is committed to promoting a culture of respect, accountability, and inclusion. We work closely with the Students’ Union, the University, and other partners to ensure our members uphold our values and the responsibilities they have as representatives of the club and the wider student community. The Students’ Union and The University of Bath Rugby Club support #NeverOK, which is a joint initiative run by the University and The SU, which aims to tackle all forms of harassment, bullying, sexual misconduct and discrimination. We would encourage any student who experiences or witnesses inappropriate behaviour to report it immediately to their respective institution, the Students’ Union, venue staff, or the relevant authorities, so that appropriate action can be taken.”
The story has since gone viral amongst university students with many people trying to highlight the prevalence of drink spiking and how students must be cautious. There are not many studies on the occurrences of drink spiking. However, the movement Women Friendly Leeds released their own report on the fears of drink spiking. They found that 79% of the people they asked expressed a fear of being spiked. In addition, 3 out of 4 respondents had experienced spiking or knew someone who had.
The findings also found that many people think that more should be done to tackle spiking. Suggestions included training for venue staff, bag checking, and drink testing.
In Leeds there are resources to help those who think they may have been spiked as well as supporting students after a night out if they think they may be vulnerable. One campaign which has gained a lot of notoriety is the Stop the Spike Campaign, who have worked with venues to ensure there are resources to avoid spiking like drink covers and testing kits.
Resources and guidance from Women Friendly Leeds
Leeds City Council Entertainment Licensing
SIA (Security Industry Authority) if it involves a security staff member
Tell a trusted friend, venue staff, or security.
If you suspect your drink was spiked, keep the drink for possible testing – but do not drink any more of it.
Move to a safe space and ask for help contacting the police.
If someone becomes very unwell—vomiting, drowsy, or hallucinating —call an ambulance.
Local support is available from the police, Street Marshalls, Women’s Night Safe Space and Angels of Freedom, visit the Night Safe Leeds website for more information.