Funding boost for spiking prevention training as new offence comes into force
Thousands of people working and socialising across Devon and Cornwall could benefit from enhanced spiking prevention measures after new funding was announced to support training and awareness programmes.
Devon, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has provided funding for specialist training and anti-spiking initiatives following the introduction of a new criminal offence covering spiking under the Crime and Policing Act 2026.
The funding will help deliver prevention, identification and response training to security staff, bar workers and student representatives at the University of Exeter and Falmouth University. Workers within Newquay's nightlife sector, including pubs and clubs, will also be able to access the training.
The programme will be delivered by Exeter-based charity Stamp Out Spiking, which has campaigned for more than two decades for stronger laws and greater awareness around the issue.
An additional £10,000 has been awarded to support the charity's work across the South West, including the distribution of anti-drink spiking protective covers. The initiative forms part of wider efforts to tackle violence against women and girls.
The announcement comes shortly after a new offence of administering a harmful substance without consent, including spiking, became law following Royal Assent to the Crime and Policing Act 2026 on April 29.
Campaigners say the legislation provides a clearer legal framework for prosecuting offenders and raising awareness of the crime.
Dawn Dines, founder of Stamp Out Spiking, described the change as a significant milestone after years of campaigning for reform.
She said the new law would make the offence more visible and easier for victims, police and venues to understand, but stressed that prevention and effective responses remain essential.
Latest figures from Devon and Cornwall Police show 311 spiking incidents were reported between April 2025 and March 2026, compared with 292 during the previous year.
Of the 198 tests carried out during that period, 17 confirmed a spiking incident. However, campaigners believe many incidents still go unreported despite signs that reporting rates are increasing.
Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez urged anyone who believes they have been spiked to seek help and report the incident to police.
She praised the work of Dawn Dines and Stamp Out Spiking, describing the campaign as an example of how determined individuals can help bring about meaningful change.
Devon & Cornwall Police has also welcomed the funding, saying it will build on ongoing work with licensed premises to raise awareness, support victims and encourage reporting.
Officers continue to stress that spiking incidents remain relatively rare across Devon and Cornwall, but say prompt reporting is crucial to safeguarding victims and gathering evidence.
Anyone who believes they have been spiked is urged to contact police on 101 or report the incident online. In an emergency, or if medical assistance is required, people should call 999.