Anti-spiking measures implemented across city venues

Drinks covers and testing kits are to be placed on the bars of venues across Leeds this New Year's Eve as part of an anti-spiking campaign.

The "Stop the Spike" initiative was started by Women Friendly Leeds and the city council and aims to help protect women and girls over the festive period and beyond.

Staff at more than 40 venues have been trained to identify and deal with suspected spikings as part of the scheme.

"We have covers on tables so people can grab and use them, they stick on top of drinks and you can notice if somebody has tampered with them," said Megan Childs, Wardrobe bar manager.

"It is all about creating a safe space," she said.

"It is not necessarily getting spiked with drugs, it could also be alcohol - noticing different signs of what spiking could induce.

"We want everybody to have fun and then get home safe."

"Hopefully it will reduce the number of people doing it, because everybody's more aware and paying attention to the signs," Ms Childs added.

The campaign comes after conversations between the Women Friendly Leeds initiative and the city's universities highlighted spiking as a serious concern for students and young people.

Signs of spiking can include:

• Sudden confusion or feeling unwell
• Vomiting
• Hallucinations
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty speaking clearly
• Blackouts or memory loss

It is a criminal offence, even if no assault or attack follows, and carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

Faye Hopkin, area manager at Headrow House, a venue also involved, said: "We are pleased to see this anti-spiking campaign raising awareness across our city.

"Taking a clear stand, we strengthen customer trust and demonstrate our firm commitment to ensuring that such behaviour is not tolerated."

Leeds City Council urged people enjoying a night out over the festive period to take care and be mindful of risks while celebrating.

Councillor Asghar Khan, from the council, said: "Sadly, spiking is a national problem and we want to make sure that everyone who goes out in Leeds is aware of what signs to look out for and that there is support around."

Increased footfall in December increases vulnerability for women and girls, according to Shreena Gobey, night safe space coordinator for Women Friendly Leeds.

In the first weekend of the month, their night safe bus supported 36 women and girls needing help for a range of issues.

Ms Gobey hoped the campaign will lead to an increase in awareness and will be a catalyst for conversations reducing shame surrounding spiking.

"Sometimes people can be worried to come forward, they think they had a lot to drink - that can reduce the likelihood of reporting formally to police or getting help," she said.

"Hopefully it'll makes everybody think - even if they have had a fair old bit to drink - they should still say they have every right to not be spiked."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.