Holiday-season campaign launched to cut risk of rape

Humberside Police said statistics show that alcohol is involved in 30 per cent of rapes and sexual assaults in the force area, and officers have delivered a strong personal safety message advising people against drinking to excess as that can make them vulnerable.

The warning is particularly aimed at festive party-goers and is accompanied by a poster campaign in licensed premises.

Det Supt Christine Kelk, the force lead for serious sexual assault, said: "It is really important that as people go out in the run up to Christmas to enjoy the holiday period that they do not lose sight of the standards that they would normally have.

"Alcohol significantly reduces inhibition and can mean that women become vulnerable – perhaps separated from their friends or too intoxicated to make rational decisions.

"This campaign is aimed at making women safer, and ensuring that men realise that women have to be sober enough to consent."

The force is advising revellers to stay with their friends, pre-book taxis and be sure they are getting into the right vehicle, ensure their drinks are not tampered with, be confident and assertive, and stay sober enough to look after themselves and others.

Det Constable Teresa Colledge, from Goole CID, said: "Research has shown that people who have been drinking are more at risk of being the victim of attacks, robberies, muggings and sexual assaults.

"Christmas is a time for enjoyment, but sadly in the line of work I do, I often see the detrimental effect alcohol has on a person.

"As the party season approaches we want people who are going out to have a good time but to keep themselves safe.

"Ultimately we want to prevent rape from occurring in the first place by arming potential victims with the right sort of advice."

The force will be issuing a new poster each week.

The first week of the campaign focuses on the dangers of excessive drinking and has the slogan: "Let your hair down, not your guard."

The message will be reinforced by officers on patrol.