Scottish revellers urged to be vigilant for drink spiking over festival season

The Scottish Government has partnered with the NHS to warn Scots to be vigilant of the dangers of drink spiking over the summer period.

Victims and community safety minister Siobhian Brown has urged those socialising over the summer and festival period to look out for the signs of spiking, which include memory loss, loss of balance, confusion, paranoia, and hallucinations.

Meanwhile, the NHS will log potential victims of spiking who report to A&E.

Brown said: “We are aware of the concern in spiking cases that the link between health professionals and Police Scotland has not always been clear to victims

“We are therefore introducing changes to the NHS system which will allow us to record those who present to A&E as potential victims of spiking. This will provide invaluable data on previous unrecorded incidents and will allow us to better understand the extent to which these lead on to formal police reporting.

“We remain committed to raising awareness of and addressing issues around spiking, and urge everyone to remain vigilant and stay safe as they enjoy the summer and festival period.”

It comes as TRNSMT got underway on Friday, with the Edinburgh Fringe kicking off next month.

Safer Scotland’s tips to keep safe from spiking include:

Never leave a drink unattended, whether it is alcoholic or not
Never accept a drink from someone unknown
Don’t drink or taste anyone else’s drink
Throw a drink away or take it back to the bar if it tastes strange or different
Avoid drinking or taking substances which impact safety and wellbeing
Always stick together with friends and look out for each other, even when within smaller social gatherings. If leaving a venue early or going home alone make sure friends are aware and there is a plan for getting home safely

“Recognising the signs of spiking is crucial, as the signs can appear rapidly”, Dr Julie Ronald, associate medical director at NHS 24 said.

“Common symptoms can include sudden dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, and loss of consciousness.

“If you suspect you or someone else has been spiked, stay with a trusted friend and seek immediate help. It’s important to alert venue staff and seek medical help right away. Call NHS 24 on 111 for advice, but in a life-threatening emergency remember to always call 999.”