Derby assault victim speaks out about women's safety
The 20-year-old says women are living in fear
Women in Derby will be refusing to visit nightclubs next Wednesday in a bid to combat the spiking of drinks.
The campaign is part of a nationwide boycott: 'Girls Night In' which aims to demonstrate how uncomfortable women feel with the measures in place to protect them on nights out.
Nightclub owners as well as the police are being pushed to take action in Derby for the cases where people have been spiked in nightclubs.
Aims and outcomes
People taking part also want heavier repercussions for perpetrators, increased searches upon entry to establishments, more CCTV covering at bars, better support and care for victims of abuse in the moments, days, weeks and months following on from incidents.
Another requirement which campaigners say is needed is stoppers for bottles and cup covers given out for free and in abundance.
Lots of women are also saying now that they feel unsafe going out in the days leading up to the protest and will be avoiding nightclub establishments until adequate action is taken.
20-year-old pushes for change
The subject is particularly poignant for 20-year-old Isabella Claire from Derby who was sexually assaulted when she was on holiday. Isabella told Greatest Hits that she also avoids drinking when she goes out for fear of being spiked and being in danger again:
"I was sexually assaulted. It's still horrifying saying that out loud because I don't think I've come to terms with it. I was taken advantage of. It was very clear that I would not be able to consent to anything, even if I was asked."
"It's absolutely ridiculous that girls are basically unable to do anything. We can't walk to the club without being catcalled. We can't walk on our own. We don't feel safe contacting the police because of everything that's happening with that as well and it's got to the point where something really does need to change."
"All girls and a lot of men now are definitely living in fear. I love clubbing but I really don't want to go out at the moment until something's done or changed."
"There's a club in Derby where the cups; they're black so you can't see if anything's been dropped in your drink. Especially with needles now, people need to start searching now and start being harsher."