Sexual violence, harassment and spiking
Bristol SU believe that sexual harassment and violence are not acceptable. Students who experience a crisis or are the victim of a crime outside normal working hours can contact:
- The Police: Phone 999 (emergency number) or 101 (non-emergency number).
- University Security Services (24/7): Phone 0117 3311223 (emergency number) or 0117 928 7848 (non-emergency number).
- If you feel unsafe on or around campus call Security or go to your nearest University building and ask someone to phone Security for you.
Support
The Bridge (Sexual Assault Referral Centre)
Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (SARAS)
Spiking
‘Spiking’ is when someone puts alcohol or drugs into another person’s drink or their body without their knowledge and/or consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Examples of Spiking
- Putting double measures in someone's drink when they only asked for a single.
- Topping up someone's glass when they don't notice.
- Buying someone a drink when they are already drunk.
- Telling someone that a substance is one thing but giving them another.
- Drugging someone’s drink
What are the symptoms of spiking
- A rapid change in level of inebriation
- Confusion
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Hallucinations
- Disorientation
- Loss of ability to communicate properly
- Paranoia
- Poor coordination
- Unconsciousness
What to do if someone has been spiked
- Tell a bar manager, bouncer or member of staff
- Stay with them and keep talking to them
- Call an ambulance if their condition deteriorates and tell the call operator and crew that you believe the person's drink has been spiked
- Don't let them go home on their own
- Don't let them leave the venue with someone you don't know or trust
- If possible, try and prevent them drinking more alcohol as this could lead to serious problems
- Report to the police as soon as possible by calling 101. Dial 999 in an emergency
- Report the incident to the University and reach out to the University's wellbeing team. The University also has a team of male and female Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLOs) who have had specialist training to support and advise any student who has experienced any form of sexual violence.
- If you were spiked by another student or a member of University staff, you can make an Unacceptable Behaviour Complaint or contact the Student Resolution Service (details above).
