The University of Bath has launched an investigation into allegations that members of a sports club planned to spike the drinks of female students during Freshers' Week.
Allegations surface online
Rumours began to circulate online after a screenshot of a text message from an anonymous student said that they overheard young men talking about spiking them and their friends at a pub. A new student group called Bath Against SA (sexual assault) has since been set up in response and is planning a public demonstration.
In a statement today, the university stated that while no incidents of drink spiking had been reported, they take the allegations 'extremely seriously'.
University response
The statement said: 'We take any allegations and concerns relating to student welfare, safeguarding, and community standards extremely seriously.'
'We are working swiftly to take action in response. We are commissioning an independent investigation into the specific allegations circulating on social media to establish the facts.'
'If evidence of wrongdoing is found, we will ensure that our student disciplinary measures are implemented robustly.'
'We are also beginning a wider review of the culture around our sports clubs, alongside The SU (students' union), and will be working to develop further training and support to promote positive change across the student body.'
The university also acknowledged the situation had been 'frightening for many students', particularly women concerned about their safety when going out in Bath.
'We are also concerned about reports of abuse directed at student sports club members,' the statement added. 'It is really important that all our students' wellbeing and safety is respected while due process is carried out.'
Wider review and next steps
On top of this, the university is carrying out a wider review of the culture around its sports clubs. Across the next two weeks, it will hold in-person stalls on the campus about safety, wellbeing and the 'very clear expectations' they have around preventing harassment, bullying, sexual misconduct and discrimination.
The university's rugby club and student union have since released a joint statement, saying they were aware of the concerns but insisted the club had not 'organised, promoted, or attempted to arrange' any such activity. 'Our priority remains the safety and wellbeing of all students,' they said. The university added that any evidence of wrongdoing would be dealt with through its disciplinary procedures.
