Get Consent Campaign: Almost half of reported rapes are perpetrated within a relationship or by an ex partner

A new campaign, launched by Police Scotland, is focused on preventing rape and ‘reinforcing the need for consent’ in all relationships.

The Get Consent Campaign is perpetrator focused, specifically aimed at men aged between 18 and 35, which is the peak age of offending.

Statistics from Police Scotland show that in nearly half of all rapes reported, the perpetrator was the partner or ex-partner of the victim, and with this new campaign police are warning that sex without consent is rape – and that includes within a relationship.

Get Consent Campaign: Almost half of reported rapes are perpetrated within a relationship or by an ex partner

In a statement, Police Scotland wrote: “In 2020/21 from April to January, there was a 7.1 per cent decrease in the total number of rapes reported compared to the same period in 2019/20.

“However, a reduction in reporting does not mean a reduction in offending.

"All forms of sexual crime continue to be under-reported.”

Rape Crisis Scotland’s national rape crisis helpline is available 08088 01 03 02 every day from 6pm until midnight for anyone affected by sexual violence, no matter when or how it happened.

Assistant Chief Constable Judi Heaton, Major Crime and Public Protection, Police Scotland said: "Almost half of rapes reported to us are perpetrated within a relationship or by an ex-partner.

"I cannot be clearer on this, being in a relationship does not give anyone the right to sex.

“Sex without consent is rape – no justifications, no excuses.

“Our campaign focuses on rape within relationships and seeks to tackle these issues head on.

"Our message to perpetrators and those at risk of offending is: no-one is 'entitled' to sex.

"Sex without consent is rape - so make sure you get consent.”

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