The University of Bath has launched an investigation following rumours suggesting that some students planned to spike drinks during Freshers' Week.
These concerns arose after a screenshot of a text from an anonymous student appeared online, alleging that she overheard a group of young men discussing plans to spike the drinks of herself and her friends at a local pub.
In response to these allegations, a newly formed student organisation named Bath Against SA (Sexual Assault) announced they are organising a public demonstration.
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A university spokesperson issued a statement on Thursday, emphasising that while no official reports of drink spiking have been made, the institution takes these rumours very seriously.
The statement said: “We are aware of allegations circulating on social media regarding intentions to spike drinks during Freshers’ Week. We treat these concerns with the highest importance. All University of Bath students complete mandatory #NeverOK training, designed to combat harassment, bullying, sexual misconduct, and discrimination.
“Furthermore, sports team committee members undergo training on expected conduct and behaviour. Since the term began, we have not received any incident reports related to drink spiking.
“The safety and wellbeing of our student community remain our top priorities. We are actively investigating to establish the facts and are in close communication with both students and external partners.
“We encourage anyone with information to confidentially use our Support and Report system - all reports are thoroughly investigated.”
Amid the rumours, some suggested that Young’s Pubs, which operate several venues in the city, had banned members of the University of Bath Rugby Club. The company firmly denied these claims.
A Young’s spokesperson clarified: “All Bath students are welcome at our three city pubs: Bath Brew House, Cork and Bath Cider House. There are no bans in place for University of Bath Rugby Club members or any other student societies.
“We are aware of social media allegations about drink spiking intentions during Freshers’ Week and appreciate the university’s serious approach.
“Customer and staff safety is our utmost priority. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards drink spiking and any behaviour endangering others. Our bar and security teams have been informed and will remain vigilant to ensure a safe, welcoming environment.”
The University of Bath Rugby Club, alongside the Students' Union, also released a joint statement addressing the situation.
They said: “Concerns associating the club with unacceptable behaviour towards female students have circulated in the past and have re-emerged. The University of Bath Rugby Club does not condone or participate in any form of targeting, coercion, harassment, intimidation, or risky behaviour.
“We have not organised or promoted any such activities.
“Our club is dedicated to fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and inclusion. We work closely with the Students’ Union, the university, and partners to ensure all members uphold our values and responsibilities as representatives of both the club and the wider student community.
“We support the #NeverOK initiative aimed at eliminating harassment, bullying, sexual misconduct, and discrimination.
“Any student who witnesses or experiences inappropriate conduct is encouraged to report it promptly to the university, Students' Union, venue staff, or relevant authorities to enable appropriate action.”
Drink spiking is a criminal offence in the UK, even if no further crime such as theft or assault takes place. Offenders can face charges ranging from common assault to grievous bodily harm, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment, including life sentences in severe cases.
The university concluded the statement, reaffirming: “Our utmost priority is the safety and wellbeing of all students. We remain committed to collaborating constructively with our partners to address concerns openly and effectively.”