Surrey Police encourage parents to talk to their teens about spiking
Make sure they stay safe and are aware it's a the criminal offence
As student's get ready for a new start at University, Surrey Police are encouraging parents to talk to their teens about the dangers of spiking.
Spiking is giving someone alcohol or drugs without them knowing or agreeing and can happen to anyone anywhere – no matter their age, gender, sexuality or ethnicity.
Surrey Police highlight on their website that being open and honest is almost always the best way with children and remind them it's unacceptable and criminal behaviour.
Children as young as 11 are exposed to misinformation about spiking on social media, but in reality, it's an offence that might land victims in hospital.
Further advice on the Surrey Police website talks about what to do if you know someone who is spiking people which includes telling someone and offering support to a victim if it's safe to do so and what to do if you think your teenager is spiking others.
Challenging spiking behaviour can help keep others safe. It reduces the chance that the teenager commits further spiking offences and potentially ends up with a criminal record.
You can read more on how to talk to your teens about Spiking on the Surrey Police website.