Student boycott over spiking fears
STUDENTS at Reading University could stage a second boycott of campus bars over spiking fears.
The usual Wednesday club night was cancelled last week as part of a nationwide campaign called Girls Night In, against a rise of incidents where young women were jabbed with needles, leaving them unconscious.
Police forces are also investigating cases of drinks being spiked at nightclubs, bars and on university premises around the country.
Ben Knowles, president of Reading University Students Union (RUSU), said there had been a number of unconfirmed reports involving students on campus.
“If students feel unsafe and call for a further boycott, then we will look at it,” he said.
“I know that this issue is a big concern for our students and more needs to be done. The Girls Night in Reading Uni campaign is a really positive campaign that I am fully in support of, and we are supportive of our members boycotting any space in which they don’t feel safe.
“RUSU has proactively taken a number of steps to ensure safety in our venue, thanks to feedback from our members. The comments we’re receiving have already provided valuable insight. We want to continue this conversation.”
He added: “There have been a number of events nationwide over the last 12 months that have demonstrated how we, as men, need to do a hell of a lot better. It is important that we support women, and that we look out for the women we live and study with. It is our responsibility to report anything we see or hear which poses a danger to others.
“Spiking is never OK, and I am committed to doing all I can to ensure our members feel safe at RUSU. By working with Campus Security, Thames Valley Police, University of Reading and most importantly our members, we will make RUSU a safe space for you to enjoy.”
The usually bustling Wednesday night which normally runs until 2am was eerily quiet as students stayed away.
University bosses issued a statement saying it had been “made aware of several reports of spiking, including drink spiking, and reports that students have received puncture wounds”.
“This appears to be linked to venues both on and off campus,” the statement added.
“We have informed police and offering every assistance in finding those who responsible. Anyone who assaults should face the full weight of the law.
“We urge anyone who has been the victim of or witness to a crime, or who has information about these incidents, to contact the police. Call 999 if you see a crime occurring or need immediate assistance. If you are on campus, call our 24hour Security emergency line on 0118 378 6300.
Vice-chancellor, Professor Robert Van de Noort, said: “I am appalled and deeply concerned about these reports.
“I have a message for anyone considering spiking anyone’s drink or drugging them: think very hard about your actions, and the very serious impact it will have on other people, and on yourself. If you are found to have done this, you face disciplinary action, risk your future at the university, and likely to face criminal charges.
“Together we will do all we can to keep each other safe,” he added.