Around 100 students at Blackpool and The Fylde College took part in an immersive spiking-prevention workshop hosted by the Lancashire Violence Reduction Network and CounterSpike.
The event aimed to raise awareness of spiking and empower young people with the knowledge and confidence to stay safe on nights out.
Unlike a traditional classroom session, the workshop used a silent disco format, with students wearing headphones while music and light displays created an interactive experience. Throughout the session, the music was paused to share real stories and key messages about recognising, preventing, and responding to spiking. Students also took part in activities such as wearing ‘drunk-effect’ goggles to simulate the impact of intoxication and understand the risks associated with spiking.
The session encouraged open conversations about spiking, helping students understand what it is, how to reduce risk, and what to do if they or someone they know is affected.
Chief Inspector Gemma Barr, Operational Lead for the Lancashire Violence Reduction Network, said: “Fortunately, we don’t have many confirmed spiking cases in Lancashire, but we always encourage anyone with concerns to report them. Even one incident is one too many. By working closely with our young people and partners, we want to make sure everyone feels safe and supported. Events like this help start those conversations and give students the confidence to look out for one another.”
Following the workshop, students were able to visit information stalls form local services including Nest Lancashire, Green Dot, Lancashire Police, Trust House, Trading Standards, and the Community Alcohol Partnership, who shared practical advice and details of the support available to young people in the area.
Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire said: “We know spiking remains a significantly under reported crime that can have a traumatic and lasting impact on victims, therefore it’s vital we continue to demonstrate how seriously this issue is taken and focus on prevention wherever possible. Everyone deserves to enjoy a night out safely, without fear of these reckless and harmful acts. However, findings from a recent survey I commissioned show that violence against women and girls remains a major concern within the night-time economy.
“By raising awareness through fun events such as this, investing in education, and ensuring strong enforcement, we’re working to build public confidence in our response to spiking and, most importantly, prevent people from becoming victims in the first place. I would urge anyone who thinks they may have been spiked to report it as soon as possible. Support is also available through Victim Care Lancashire.”
Emma Benyon, Higher Education Academic Achievements Manager at Blackpool and The Fylde College, said: “Events like these give our students the tools and confidence to keep themselves and others safe, which is at the centre of everything we do at B&FC. This workshop gave our students an interactive and engaging way to learn about spiking and how to stay safe on nights out with practical knowledge and strategies to make informed choices. It is incredible to see so many local and national partners working together to raise awareness and support initiatives like Green Dot. These help to ensure our students are safe on and off campus and make real difference in our community.”
