By Local Violence Reduction Unit aims to stop drinks spiking
The South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit has pledged to prevent the recent issue of drinks spiking in nightclubs in places like Doncaster.
The unit aims to reduce violence of all kinds in South Yorkshire by taking a ‘public health approach’.
They look at the causes of violence and work with other groups to prevent further violence before it starts.
They also find ways to aid those entrapped in violent behaviour.
The South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit will work with their partners in Doncaster, Barnsley, Rotherham and Sheffield to discuss what financial support can be given towards the purchasing of spiking prevention kits for relevant venues.
The unit will also work alongside the South Yorkshire Evening and Night Time Economy Group which reportedly includes members of the South Yorkshire Police, licencing officers from the four local authorities, public health officers and city centre managers.
The group aims to raise awareness about the dangers of spiking.
Graham Jones, Head of the South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit, said: “Spiking is another form of violence towards women.
“Men need to take responsibility for their behaviour and stop treating women in this way.
“I would urge anyone who witnesses someone spiking a drink to report it.
“You never know it could happen to anyone, including a family member or friend.”
Dr Alan Billings, the South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Spiking drinks is a horrible practice and we must do everything we can to raise awareness of its possibility and the potential dangers it poses.
“I welcome this offer from the South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit to work with Community Safety Partnerships to supply spiking prevention kits to those venues where the threat is most likely.”
