Written question WQ91230

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

We have strengthened our Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) Strategy to include a focus on gender-based harassment in all public spaces, in order to make Wales the safest place in Europe to be a woman.

While I have not had any recent discussions with health boards about spiking cases, my officials are working with colleagues on improving the data to support better clinical processes that reflect changes in the broader societal and clinical environment. This work will support our VAWDASV national strategy.

I am also aware that in July 2022 the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, together with the National Police Chiefs’ Council and the College of Policing, published a position statement on spiking.”

Through our Live Fear Free campaigns we will continue to raise awareness of harassment, abuse and violence against women in all aspects of life including the street and other public places.