Free training launched to help hospitality staff tackle sexual harassment and drink spiking

Licensed venues, businesses and hospitality staff are being urged to sign up for a new, free e-learning course designed to help them prevent, recognise and respond to sexual harassment, drink spiking and concerns involving vulnerable customers.

Created by our Community Safety Team, the online training has been tailored for staff working in pubs, bars, restaurants, clubs, cafés, hotels and other licensed premises across the borough.

Councillor Rhi Lee, the Council’s White Ribbon Champion, said: “Everyone should be able to enjoy a night out in Richmond upon Thames without fear of harassment, violence or harm.

“No one should have to second-guess their safety, plan routes home around risk, or worry that they or their friends may be targeted.

“This vital free training gives hospitality and venue staff the confidence to recognise warning signs, respond quickly and support anyone who may be at risk. By taking part, businesses can play a crucial role in making our borough’s evening and night-time economy safer, more welcoming and more enjoyable for everyone.”

The training is a preventative measure, helping venues build on good practice and ensure staff have the knowledge and confidence to spot warning signs and act when concerns arise

It can be completed at a time that suits staff and businesses and is suitable for all customer-facing staff, including full-time, part-time, temporary and seasonal workers. 

The course covers:

• Understanding and recognising sexual harassment
• Identifying the signs and risks of drink spiking
• Responding safely and appropriately to incidents and concerns
• Supporting vulnerable customers
• Using the Ask for Angela scheme effectively
• Understanding legal responsibilities and good practice standards  

The new course is part of our wider commitment to tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), preventing harm and creating safer public spaces across the borough.

By working with local businesses, licensing officers and community safety partners, Richmond Council is supporting venues to challenge unacceptable behaviour, protect customers and build a culture where harassment and drink spiking are never tolerated.

You can find out further information and access the training.