- Conference
- 2005 National Women's Conference
- Date
- 18 October 2004
- Decision
- Carried
During the last few decades, there has been a rise in the number of drug rapes and drug-related attacks, mainly taking place in pubs and clubs where the opportunity to spike drinks is readily available. Women are particularly vulnerable, so it is therefore necessary to be aware and informed of the problem and to raise the profile with our women members.
Spiking is where a substance is added to someone’s drink without his or her knowledge. This can be extra alcohol or drugs and this then puts the person at risk without them knowing it. The effects are many and varied, but often include a state whereby you are far too drunk for the amount consumed, have a complete lack of memory of the previous night, and in worst case scenario can result in you not knowing you have slept with someone or even been attacked or raped.
We instruct the National Women’s Committee to publicise information about the risks of drink spiking and that a guide to make women safer be distributed by UNISON to their women members.