Free anti-spiking kits handed out by police

Anti-spiking kits are being handed out by police to keep people safe while on a night out.

Cumbria Police, Cumberland Council staff and volunteers from the University of Cumbria will be handing out the free kits in Carlisle city centre.

The kits consist of drink protectors - covers which can fit a straw - and testing strips.

Police officers will also be increasing patrols and will be looking for potential offenders targeting vulnerable people.

Det Insp Mike Taylor said: "We recently bid for, and received some extra funding from the Home Office, which has enabled us to increase our investment into supplies of anti-spiking products, and safety information merchandise to be handed out to people on a night out, around the county.

"This funding will also be used to roll out this type of help through a similar Safer Streets Welfare Hub to be used in the Westmorland and Furness area."

He added: "Spiking can cause severe distress, emotional harm and anxiety. It can take a long time to recover from someone spiking you."

Spiking is giving someone alcohol or drugs without them knowing or agreeing.

The anti-spiking kits will be available at the Safer Streets Welfare Hub at Court Square, which is near many of the city's nightlife venues.

Iain Stainton, principal lecturer at University of Cumbria, said: "Several of our students have completed significant training to become Safer Streets volunteers, working at the night-time welfare hub in Carlisle.

"This voluntary role allows our students the opportunity to make a real contribution to the community in which they live and study, supporting an important collaboration that is providing a safer environment for women and girls."

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