Summer rape awareness campaign points out risks of drinking too much

The initiative in North Lincolnshire is being supported by the local authority, the health service and pub landlords. It urges people who are going out to socialise to be wary after an increase in attacks during warmer weather at Easter.

Det Sgt Nicki Miller, head of the sexual offences team in North Lincolnshire, said: “Alcohol can significantly reduce inhibition and can mean that women become vulnerable, perhaps separated from their friends or too intoxicated to make rational decisions.

“The summer campaign is aimed at making women safer and ensuring that men realise women have to be sober enough to consent. We appreciate that this message is not aimed at everyone but research has shown that people who have been drinking are more at risk of being the victim of attacks, robberies, muggings and sexual assaults.”

Paul Ferguson, head of Pubwatch and licensee of the Bluebell pub in Scunthorpe, said there were particular concerns about a heavy drinking culture among young women.

He said: “Any campaign which raises awareness of keeping safe when drinking is a positive step, especially when it comes to young girls maintaining control of their own safety. Unfortunately some see it as fashionable to get so drunk that they do not remember anything and can barely walk. It is obvious to any sober person that this is extremely dangerous and the horrible truth is there are people out there who will seek to take advantage of such vulnerable individuals given the opportunity.”