A HARD-hitting poster campaign has been launched to urge sexual violence victims not to stay silent this festive season.

Sexual violence is any unwanted sexual contact or harassment.

It includes pressurising someone to have sex or take part in sexual activity such as groping and sexual touching when they don’t want to or they haven’t, or can’t, give their consent.

Physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, controlling or manipulative behaviour and harassment are all forms of relationship abuse.

Dorset Police has joined forces with partner councils to launch the poster campaign over Christmas.

Detective Chief Inspector, Jez Noyce, force lead for Serious Crime Investigations, said: “Sex with someone who doesn’t want to is rape. It does not make a difference whether the people know each other or not, or what relationship they have. Just because you are in a relationship with someone, it doesn’t make it okay.

“Rape does not have to involve physical force – threatening violence, or having sex with someone who is incapable of consenting because they’re drunk or asleep is rape.

“When out celebrating this festive season, please ensure that you take care of yourself.

“Unfortunately we know that there are individuals who will take advantage of people who become intoxicated and vulnerable.

“While I am not saying that victims are responsible for what happens to them, it is important that people who go out drinking make sure they don’t become vulnerable and put themselves at added risk.”

Dorset Police has specially trained officers to investigate sexual violence and support victims. They are urging victims to come forward.

Det Chief Insp Noyce added: “Sexual violence will not be tolerated in Dorset. It is always the perpetrator’s choice to abuse. It is never the victim’s choice to be abused.

“You should never have to do something sexual that you don’t feel comfortable with, even if many of your friends are comfortable with similar situations or if you’ve done it before. Being in a relationship with someone does not make it okay for them to force you to do something you don’t want to do.

“Abuse in relationships and sexual violence are not normal or acceptable – if you are in an abusive relationship or have been sexually assaulted or raped it’s never your fault and you don’t have to put up with it.

“You don’t have to suffer in silence. Sexual violence can be stopped if you seek support.”