What are StopTopps?

StopTopps are versatile drink-protectors that have been designed to deter drink-spiking. They are single-use foils that can be put over a drink, and are suitable for any drinking vessel commonly found in pubs, festivals and clubs, including cans, bottles and glasses. The foils are made from small (100mm) sheets of aluminium foil, through which you can insert a straw for easy drinking. The foils have food and hygiene approved glue on the underside so they stick securely on the top of any drinking vessel. This makes it difficult for anything to be added to your drink without your knowledge.

You describe StopTopps as drink-protectors, what do you mean by that?

StopTopps are single-use foils that can be put over your drink in order to 'protect' it, by deterring any opportunists from slipping something into your drink without your knowledge.

How would I use them?

Please click on the link to watch a short video on how to use a StopTopps.

How big a problem is drink spiking?

Drink spiking is a hugely under-reported problem that affects people the world over. It's impossible to get exact statistics for drink-spiking. From our national survey we found that over 97% of cases aren’t even reported to the police, but it is increasing year by year according to UK police forces. The results, from a series of Freedom of Information requests, show a 108% increase since 2015 in the number of reports to police forces, which include both the words ‘drink’ and ‘spiking' or ‘lacing". There is no official offence code for drink spiking.

What are some of the reasons that people spike drinks?

There are many reasons that people spike drinks. Often, it may be a friend thinking they are doing you a favour, or pranking you - not funny if you have to drive later for example. It may be someone who wants have sex with you - possibly because they hope you are less likely to say no when you’re drunk, or maybe they want you so intoxicated you can’t even say no. It might be that they want to rob you, or it may be one of many other reasons.

So most of the time it's not even reported?

No, even though drink-spiking is an offence and can carry a ten year prison sentence, people don't usually report it unless there are further offences committed. According to our national survey, over 97% of victims don't report being spiked to the police.

What is the most common form of spiking?

The most common substance used is alcohol, and it's not always with a malicious motive... But that doesn't make it okay.

What's so bad about spiking if it's not done by someone who wants to harm you?

You may have to drive later, or get drug/alcohol tested at work, or you may be on medication that doesn't mix with booze - there may be any number of other reasons. Primarily, we believe you have the right to know exactly what is in your glass. What you put in your body should be entirely up to you.

How do I get ahold of StopTopps for me and my mates?

StopTopps are available to the general public free of charge at sponsored events, and are stocked in many venues up and down the country. They are also available on our website.

What do these promotions involve?

We are raising awareness of drink spiking through educational promotions and social campaigns. Our team can visit events or venues where they will distribute safety advice and branded StopTopps free to the general public.

How can I find out when you're going to come to my area?

Details of all up and coming promotions will be on our website, alongside all of our social media channels. You can find us with @StopTopps, everywhere.

Why are you so passionate about stopping drink-spiking?

We believe everyone has a right to know exactly what’s in their drink: there are no circumstances in which spiking is acceptable. Whether it’s an extra shot of alcohol or something more dangerous, it doesn’t matter: it's wrong and everybody has the right to know what they're putting in their body.

Why do you think you will be able to reduce the incidence of drink-spiking?

Our approach combines education and awareness-raising, by hosting events with partners and encouraging people to be vigilant and proactive, both protecting themselves and the people around them.

How do I know if my drink's been spiked?

Most date rape drugs take effect within 30 minutes, and symptoms usually last for several hours. But if you pass out, it'll be hard to know the full effect. You may still feel some of the symptoms of a date rape drug after a night's sleep. Although your symptoms will depend on which substance has been used, they usually include some of the following: lowered inhibitions, difficulty concentrating or speaking, loss of balance and finding it hard to move, visual problems, particularly blurred vision, memory loss (amnesia) or "blackouts", feeling confused or disorientated, particularly after waking up (if you have been asleep), paranoia (a feeling of fear or distrust of others), hallucinations (seeing, hearing or touching things that aren't there) or having an "out of body" experience, nausea and vomiting, unconsciousness.

What should I do if I think my drink's been spiked?

Immediately tell someone you trust. If you need urgent help, call 111. Be wary of accepting help from a stranger and don't leave with someone you don't know. If you feel unwell, someone you trust should take you to your nearest A&E department. Tell the medical staff that you think your drink's been spiked. Arrange for a trusted friend or relative to take you home and stay with you until the drugs have fully left your system. Report it to the police as soon as you can. They may ask you to provide blood and urine samples. Most drugs leave the body within 72 hours of being taken (the date rape drug GHB leaves the body within 12 hours), so it's important to be tested as soon as possible. If you're abroad, get help from a travel representative or local medical services, or ask a bar or hotel manager to call local police.