WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU OR A FRIEND HAVE BEEN SPIKED.
If you need assistance on a night out because you think you, or a friend, has been spiked, try to:
- Tell a bar manager, bouncer or member of staff
- Speak with a trusted friend or relative (or a medical professional/NHS 24 or the Police) and get to a safe place. Stay with them and keep talking to them.
- Do not go home alone or leave the venue with someone you don’t know/recently met or don't trust
- Do not drink more alcohol as this could lead to more serious problems
- For urgent help, call the emergency services on 999.
- If feeling unwell, ask a trusted friend or relative to take you to the nearest A&E.
- Make a report to the Police as soon as you can (most drugs leave the body within 72 hours of being taken and some in as little as 12 hours).
One of the effects of date rape drugs can be amnesia, or loss of memory. That means it’s possible that you won’t be sure if you’ve been assaulted. But if you suspect you’ve been physically or sexually assaulted it’s important to tell someone. Try to confide in someone you trust like a friend or family member.
If you think you may have been sexually assaulted please see our support information here.
REPORTING TO THE POLICE:
If you think you have had a drink spiked or feel you're in danger you should contact the police.
Please report your concerns to Police Scotland at your local police station. You can also call the police non-urgently to report something of concern or even discuss a situation on 101, online or via 999 if it is an emergency.
You can also report the incident anonymously by calling crime stoppers at any point on 0800 555 111
RGU SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS & STAFF:
- Report and Support. Students and staff can report an incident using the University’s Report and Support system. The purpose of this system is to provide support in the event of sexual violence or harassment. You can also choose to make an anonymous report.
- Student Counselling & Wellbeing Centre. The Counselling & Wellbeing Centre is here to help and support you throughout your time at University.
- RGU 24/7 Support - Our 24/7 Student Support Service is a free professional telephone & message support service, providing in-the-moment emotional and psychological support for students, any time of day or night. Call: 0800 031 8227
OTHER SOURCES OF SUPPORT:
- Samaritans are available to talk about anything that’s troubling you, no matter how large or small the issue. You don't have to be suicidal. Call: 116 123. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
- Breathing Space where experienced advisors will listen and offer information and advice. Call their Helpline number: 0800 83 85 87 Opening hours: Weekdays: Monday-Thursday 6pm to 2am. Weekend: Friday 6pm-Monday 6am
- Victim Support Scotland Victim Support Scotland helps provides information, emotional support and practical assistance to help people affected by crime, including victims, witnesses and their families and friends. Free support helpline: 0800 160 1985 (8am-8pm, Mon-Fri)
- Four Pillars – Supporting Grampians LGBT+ Community (fourpillarsuk.org)
- Penumbra - Supporting Scotland's Mental Health a charity providing dedicated services for people experiencing mild to serious and enduring mental ill health.