Stamp Out Spiking (SOS) has announced a partnership with global drinks company Diageo and their responsible drinking platform, DrinkiQ, funding the charity’s presence at both Rockstar Energy presents Reading and Leeds Festival 2025.
This crucial support is said to enable Stamp Out Spiking to deliver their life-saving campaign at two of the UK’s biggest music events, reaching thousands of festivalgoers with information, resources and guidance on how to stay safe from all forms of spiking.
The charity articulated that as reports of spiking continue to rise across the UK, particularly at nightlife venues and large events, the presence of Stamp Out Spiking aims to:
Dawn Dines, CEO and Founder of Stamp Out Spiking said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Diageo for recognising the importance of this work and making it possible for us to attend both Reading and Leeds Festivals this summer.
“These events are a unique opportunity to reach young people at scale and we know that our presence has the potential to prevent harm, save lives and build safer, more informed festival communities.”
1 in 5 people will be spiked in their lifetime and spiking reports consistently surge during the summer months: Particularly around large-scale music events.
Yet 97% of incidents go unreported and only 2% of reported cases result in a conviction.
Victims are often left traumatised, doubted and unsupported.
Stamp Out Spiking’s latest findings, in collaboration with Cardiff University, reveal a deeply disturbing picture:
Dines said: “This is the hidden harm of spiking. It’s a devastating crime that’s quietly getting away with it.
“Behind every unreported case is someone who’s been traumatised, violated and left to pick up the pieces alone.
“We are giving people tools, information and most importantly, a voice.”
The charity’s Keep an Eye Out Campaign is said to form part of a wider national mission to Stamp Out Spiking, through education, training and advocacy.
The initiative is also said to be aligned with Diageo’s broader commitment to championing moderation, safety and personal responsibility in all drinking environments.
Stamp Out Spiking will reportedly have dedicated stalls at both Reading and Leeds Festivals, where volunteers will be engaging with attendees throughout the weekend.
The campaign is designed to be friendly, approachable and informative – helping people keep an eye out for themselves and one another.
Jordan Woodhouse-Butt, Sponsorship and Partnerships Manager, Diageo GB commented: “We’re proud to support Stamp Out Spiking ahead of the Reading and Leeds festivals.
“Festivals are at the heart of how many Brits choose to celebrate but it’s deeply concerning that a significant number of people continue to be affected by spiking in their lifetime at festivals and beyond.
“Diageo is committed to promoting safety in every drinking environment and Stamp Out Spiking’s friendly, informative approach is a powerful way to raise awareness and inspire festival-goers to look out for one another.”
To support the campaign and help reach more people, text SOSNOW to 70470 to donate £10. Every donation will help fund education programmes, training sessions and vital victim support services.
