Staying safe while you socialise
As we enjoy the warmer months and spend more time socialising, Rachel Johnson, JGA’s Employability Tutor and Youth Advocate, shares some important reminders about staying safe, maintaining your wellbeing, and looking out for others.
Spiking
What is Spiking?
When you’re at parties or social events, it’s important to be aware of spiking. This is when someone puts alcohol or drugs into another person’s drink, vape, food, or even directly into their body without their knowledge or permission.
Unfortunately, it does happen so knowing what to look out for can really help keep everyone safe.
Signs someone may have been spiked include:
- Suddenly seeming confused or disoriented
- Appearing very drunk after only a small amount of alcohol
- Vomiting or feeling unwell
- Passing out
- Experiencing hallucinations or paranoia
- Memory loss
- Panic or distress
If someone seems much more affected than you’d expect after just one drink, it’s worth paying attention.
What should you do?
- Stay with them and don’t leave them alone
- Get help from trusted friends, staff, or security
- Call 999 if they’re seriously unwell
- Keep their drink if possible, as it may help later
- Make sure they get medical help quickly
Being there for someone can make a huge difference. Also, remember some common myths aren’t true:
- It’s not just women, men can be affected too
- You might not always notice a drink has been tampered with
- It doesn’t just happen in clubs
- Even people you know can make unsafe choices
- Being drunk already doesn’t make it “less serious”
Planning ahead
A little preparation can go a long way in keeping you safe. Before heading out:
- Know where you’re going
- Make sure your phone is fully charged
- Share your location with someone you trust
- Plan how you’ll get home
- Try not to go alone if you can avoid it
While You’re Out
- Keep an eye on your drink
- Stay with your friends and don’t leave anyone behind
- Know where exits and safe spaces are
- Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t
Alcohol can affect your judgement, coordination and decision-making, so try to look out for one another. A quick check-in with a friend can really help.
Drugs and party culture
It’s important to understand the risks linked to drugs, including:
- Not knowing exactly what you’re taking
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Risk of overdose
- Increased vulnerability to theft or harm
Mixing drugs and alcohol is especially dangerous. Stay safe by:
- Avoiding unknown substances
- Not mixing alcohol and drugs
- Getting help early if something feels wrong
- Looking after friends who may be struggling
Consent and looking out for each other
Consent must always be clear, informed, and ongoing. Someone cannot give consent if they are:
- Very intoxicated
- Unconscious
- Unable to understand what’s happening
- Unable to communicate clearly
If something doesn’t seem right, don’t ignore it. You can help by:
- Checking in directly with the person
- Distracting or interrupting a situation
- Getting friends or others involved
- Alerting staff or security
- Staying nearby until things feel safe
In an emergency, always call 999 – you won’t be judged, and you could help prevent something serious.
The best way to enjoy your social time is to:
- Trust your instincts
- Stay aware (not worried)
- Look after each other
- Ask for help when needed
- Speak up early if something feels wrong
Have fun and stay safe over summer!
