Police Launch Rape Awareness Campaign

Date published: 27 November 2008

POLICE in Bury have launched a hard-hitting campaign warning people of the dangers of drinking too much on a night out and leaving themselves vulnerable to rape and sexual assaults.

This week, Greater Manchester Police is running a rape awareness campaign to reduce incidents of rape and sexual assault over the Christmas period, while increasing the reporting of incidents.

Posters will be distributed to pubs and clubs to highlight important messages, such as 'sex without consent is a crime and can lead to a lengthy jail term' and ‘let your hair down, not your guard’.

Detective Inspector Colin Larkin of the Public Protection and Investigation Unit said the campaign aimed to highlight issues surrounding personal safety during the Christmas party season, traditionally a time of celebration associated with alcohol consumption.

“Although the vast majority of people don't experience any problems on a night out, too much alcohol can create a false sense of security and cause them to be more vulnerable to crime,” said Detective Inspector Larkin.

“Binge drinking can inhibit a person's ability to react and respond to circumstances developing around them. In such a state, they can be in greater danger of becoming a victim of rape,” he added.

Between 1 April and 31 October 2008, there were 526 rapes and attempted rapes reported in Greater Manchester - alcohol featured in approximately two thirds with this figure expected to increase in the run up to and over the Christmas period.

Detective Inspector Larkin said the campaign also aimed to encourage people to report rape to the police.

“We have a dedicated team of detectives who deal with rape and sexual offences. Victims can be assured that we they will be treated in the strictest confidence and we also provide access to medical services, victim support and counseling,” he said.

As well as the police, there are a number of other organisations in place to support victims of rape, such as St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, the Victim Support and Witness Service, Rape Crisis and M.A.S.H.

Radio adverts will also run on Key 103 and Rock Radio to support the rape awareness campaign.