Liverpool boosts efforts to combat drink spiking in nightclubs

Liverpool is set to enhance efforts against drink spiking in nightclubs, following new government plans. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that training for venue staff will begin soon, aiming to make spiking a specific criminal offense. The government plans to train 10,000 hospitality workers by spring 2025. However, Liverpool's Pub Watch chairman, John Hughes, advocates for broader training, suggesting all staff should be educated on preventing and handling spiking incidents. Hughes is also developing a safety app and distributing testing kits for drinks. He emphasizes collaboration among local venues to improve safety, highlighting Liverpool's long-held 'Purple Flag' status for nightlife standards.