A new episode of Spots of Time focuses on drink spiking prevention and the lasting impact of one family’s loss.
Inascope Media has released the episode hosted by Angela Kanwar, featuring Colin and Mandy, whose son Greg died while at university in 2017.
In the episode, available from 5 March, Colin and Mandy reflect on Greg’s life and the circumstances surrounding his death. Initially described as a drugs overdose, the case later raised concerns including evidence consistent with drink spiking. Despite investigation and toxicology findings, no prosecution was secured.
Rather than stepping back, the couple chose to campaign for change. Colin says in the episode: “We can either lay down and die or take the bull by the horns and move it along.”
With no previous experience of legislation or advocacy, they began speaking publicly about spiking and pushing for greater awareness.
Their work now includes education sessions in schools, colleges and universities, safety talks during Freshers’ Week, collaboration with police and safety partners, and a helpline supporting individuals and families.
They also back student research, meet MPs and MSPs, and campaign for drink spiking to become a standalone offence.
Colin explains how he channelled his grief into action rather than turning to alcohol or medication. “There’s nothing there, so we’re going to put something there,” he says.
The episode also explores the personal cost behind their public campaigning, including the emotional strain, regular calls from families seeking help, and the routines they rely on at home to cope.
Hosted by Angela, Spots of Time explores defining moments in people’s lives – moments of rupture, courage and transformation – and the “toolkits” people develop to survive and rebuild.
Spots of Time launches on 5 March with this episode on YouTube and most podcast platforms.
