Police reveal 20% of rapes happen when victim is sleeping

Young men are being targeted by Police after it was revealed around 20% of women who're seriously sexually assaulted were sleeping when their attacks began.

The 'We can Stop It' campaign, which will involve advertising and social media, is targeted at men between 18 and 35 and will raise awareness about the fact that sex without consent is rape.

Assistant Chief Constable Gillian MacDonald said: "In 2018 in Scotland sadly there are men who think it is OK to have sex with someone who is sleeping or suffering from the effects of alcohol or drugs.

"We are receiving frequent reports with at least 20% of all rapes reported to Police Scotland committed in such a way.

"Investigations carried out by Police Scotland shows that men aged between 18 —35 years are more likely to be responsible and we want to send a strong message to them that sex without consent is rape, and if the person is unable to give consent to sexual activity, for whatever reason, It Is rape."

The campaign, which involves social media messaging using the hashtag #GetConsent on Twitter, advertising on broadcast media and in washrooms within clubs, bars and pubs, will be supported by a range of partner organisations.

ACC MacDonald added: "Tackling rape is a priority for Police Scotland. We are acutely aware that sexual crime is under reported, the reasons for this can be complex, however the only person responsible for such offences is the perpetrator.

"Police Scotland remains absolutely committed to working closely with partners, especially third sector support and advocacy services, to encourage survivors of rape and sexual crime to report.”

Sandy Brindley, of Rape Crisis Scotland, added: “The law is clear - if you have sex with someone who is sleeping or so drunk they can’t consent, it’s rape. It is crucial that people are aware of this.