Congleton Town Council, in partnership with Congleton Police and supported by funding from the Cheshire Police & Crime Commissioner’s SWAP (Safety, Working Together, Action and Prevention) Fund, has distributed drug testing kits to over 30 hospitality venues across the town as part of a new initiative to help combat spiking in the night-time economy.
The initiative, developed in collaboration with the White Ribbon group and the Community Safety group, is designed to offer swift support to individuals who believe they may have been spiked while out in local pubs, bars, and clubs.
Each participating venue now has testing kits available behind the bar. These rapid urine testing kits can detect 13 commonly used drugs—significantly more than standard hospital tests—and provide results in as little as 5 minutes, with full results within an hour.
Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Robert Brittian said: “This initiative sends a clear message that spiking will not be tolerated in Congleton. Our night-time venues are stepping up to support the safety and wellbeing of their customers. These kits give individuals a way to act quickly, get evidence, and report the crime. This proactive approach underlines Congleton’s commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for everyone enjoying the town’s vibrant hospitality sector.”
Costa Coffee locations across the town are also participating in the scheme, recognising that many individuals don’t realise they’ve been spiked until the following morning. Costa’s earlier opening hours make it a valuable resource for those needing prompt access to a test.
The scheme is fully endorsed by Congleton PubWatch, and kits are provided free of charge to both venues and the public. Hospitality venues can replenish their stock of kits by contacting Congleton Information Centre.
Spiking is a serious offence, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Victims are encouraged to test as soon as possible and report any incidents to the police.
There are many support groups that you contact if you feel vulnerable:
- Cheshire.cares@cheshire.police.uk, tel: 01606 366336
- www.stampoutspiking.org
- Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (RASAC), tel : 03003630063
