WEST Mercia Police has re-launched its 'stop rape now' campaign and is particularly targeting students heading to college and university.

The anti-rape campaign, which was first launched in Warwickshire in 2013, aims to encourage students and young adults to have an open conversation about rape and sexual offences and looks to educate and inform students about the complex issues around consent.

Detective chief inspector Peter Davies, tactical lead on rape and serious sexual offences, said: “The prospect of heading off to college and university is an exciting time for many young adults and we are keen to ensure their time there is fun and fulfilling.

“We accept that a large part of university and student life incorporates social events and parties, as well as learning, and the stop rape now campaign aims to educate and inform young people about the issue of consent so they feel comfortable and confident to make the right decision for themselves when in a sexual situation.

“An example of one of the issues stop rape now looks at is that consent must be acquired each time sexual activity occurs and not just once and it can be withdrawn at any time. This means that if someone initially gives you their consent they can change their mind at any point and any activity which occurs after this is a crime.

“Stop rape now aims to challenge common misconceptions such as these and reinforce the statement that sex without consent is rape irrespective of the circumstances.”

West Mercia Police confirmed that all reports of sexual offences will be taken very seriously and thoroughly investigated by specially trained officers, who will treat all victims with care and sensitivity.

For more information visit stoprapenow.co.uk