Written question WQ84450

We understand the genuine concern of women and young girls around their safety, particularly in the night time economy setting. The act of spiking is an insidious crime, it removes a person’s dignity, rights and freedom. It is a prime example of misuse of power and control.

My officials have met with representatives of the night time economy to discuss women’s safety and spiking incidences. The industry guidance and practise was discussed and agreement was reached about the industry making further use of Government awareness raising campaigns and training for their venues and staff.

In December 2021, we launched the ‘Call out only’ phase of our latest campaign ‘Don’t make this a place of fear’, calling on the public (males particularly) to call out and challenge assumptions about harassment against women – often wrongly seen as ‘harmless’ with their peers, friends and colleagues.

With support from the Industry, our Call Out Only campaign materials will be placed amongst licenced venues throughout February and March 2022. We have also committed to expand the ‘Don’t be a Bystander’ training and awareness campaign to include this workforce.