In March this year, four of Leamington’s major licenced premises underwent training to become ‘Good Night Out’ accredited. Funding was provided by the office of Warwickshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner and enabled staff from Smack, Neon, Moo and The Neighbourhood to attend sessions to better understand, respond to and prevent sexual harassment and assault within their venues.

In addition, Royal Leamington Spa Town Council provided funding for anti-spiking resources to be supplied to venues in the town in response to a rise in reported incidents. 15,000 anti-spiking drinks lids were purchased and distributed to pubs and clubs, with a further 15,000 supplied by Warwickshire Police to venues within the county.

Further work has also been undertaken in the town, with the installation of new emergency contact points across South Leamington and the upgrade of two other existing points, made possible through a partnership bid to the Home Office for Safer Streets round 3 funding. The call points offer a direct link to Warwick District Council’s CCTV control room which is monitored 24/7 by trained operators who can assist in emergency situations.

Councillor Judy Falp, Portfolio Holder for Health and Community Protection said: “We have a duty to protect our communities from harm with an emphasis on preventing incidents and safeguarding vulnerable people.

“Sexual harassment, assault and violence against women and girls has a deeply profound impact on the victims and their loved ones. Everyone in our community should be able to enjoy a safe night out, free from harm.

“These interventions we’ve worked on with partners including Royal Leamington Spa Town Council, Warwickshire County Council and Warwickshire Police are an important step in providing vital education to those working in the night-time economy to spot the signs and know how to respond to these issues should they arise.”

Councillor Nick Wilkins, Mayor of Royal Leamington Spa, added: “I applaud the joint working in Leamington’s community to address anti-social behaviour and welcome the “Good Night Out” campaign for a safer nightlife for all.

“Leamington Town Council were delighted to fund resources to prevent the spiking of drinks. Drink spiking is an appalling crime which not only affects victims physically, but it can also harm mental health.

“Everyone has the right to feel and stay safe while socialising and that’s what this joint working aims to achieve.”