Spiking is when a perpetrator administers a substance to someone without their knowledge.
Most commonly, the substance is placed in a victim’s drink without their knowledge, or it can be done as an injection through the skin.
Spiking is an assault and is contrary to the Equality Act 2010 and to King's College London's Bullying and Harassment Policy.
It is also a serious crime that carries a 10-year penalty for the offence. Such actions may also be the subject of King's disciplinary processes if the perpetrator is a King’s student, including student misconduct investigations, with penalties up to and including expulsion, and for staff - disciplinary processes resulting in termination of their employment.
London is an exciting and vibrant city, and we believe everyone should feel safe to enjoy it. Spiking and assault is caused only by the actions of the perpetrator, however we understand that providing you with as much information as possible about the signs and symptoms of spiking to look out for, both in yourself and in others, may help you feel more comfortable about enjoying our city at night.
Most commonly, the substance is placed in a victim’s drink without their knowledge, or it can be done as an injection through the skin.
Spiking is an assault and is contrary to the Equality Act 2010 and to King's College London's Bullying and Harassment Policy.
It is also a serious crime that carries a 10-year penalty for the offence. Such actions may also be the subject of King's disciplinary processes if the perpetrator is a King’s student, including student misconduct investigations, with penalties up to and including expulsion, and for staff - disciplinary processes resulting in termination of their employment.
London is an exciting and vibrant city, and we believe everyone should feel safe to enjoy it. Spiking and assault is caused only by the actions of the perpetrator, however we understand that providing you with as much information as possible about the signs and symptoms of spiking to look out for, both in yourself and in others, may help you feel more comfortable about enjoying our city at night.
If you're a student
For information and guidance on spiking, including signs and symptoms to look out, where to get help in the immediate aftermath, and further support for your wellbeing please refer to Drink spiking: what do I need to know & what can I do?.
If you're a staff member
The article Drink spiking: what do I need to know & what can I do? is primarily aimed at students, but you may also find it helpful with it's information and general guidance on resources and external organisations which may be able to help.
Further to this, you may also find these resources helpful:
Further to this, you may also find these resources helpful:
- You can seek support through the King's Employee Assistance Programme.
- For mental health and wellbeing support, have a look at KCL Staff experience: Mental wellbeing.
- You may find it helpful to get in touch with one of the Chaplains at the King's Chaplaincy, who are available to support staff, as well as students.