Rape - Short Word, Long Sentence

West Mercia Police is supporting a national rape campaign which has been launched today (Monday 30 November).

The awareness week uses the slogan ‘Rape – Short Word, Long Sentence’ and with the festive party season approaching, the campaign encourages women and men to be careful on night outs and make sure they report any crimes that do happen.  

The national launch takes place in Manchester today and West Mercia Police are reminding men and women that “No Means No”. The force is committed to protecting the public and thoroughly investigating any rapes or sexual assaults that take place in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin or Worcestershire.  

Detective Superintendent Steve Cullen, Force Crime Manager for West Mercia, said: “We take all reports of rape very seriously and have improved our service to the community by having dedicated specialist officers, improved rape suites, and better partnership work with the voluntary sector.

“Rape is a horrendous crime but there are some simple steps people can take to protect themselves. You can be vulnerable if you drink too much and don’t stay with your friends. We advise people to make sure they use licensed cabs and get home safely. Don’t go off with a stranger unless you have told a friend where you are going and watch your drink when you are out to reduce the risk of someone putting something in it without you knowing. Alcohol features in two thirds of all rapes, we want people to enjoy the party season and let their hair down without letting their guard down.  

“If you are unfortunate enough to become a victim of crime you should call police as soon as possible or if you feel unable to do so please use one of the support services there are on offer in our region.”

How To Get Help

Anyone who wants to speak to West Mercia Police should call 0300 333 3000. In an emergency always call 999.

Posters and leaflets promoting the campaign message will be distributed by Local Policing Teams and some mobile phone users in West Mercia will also be able to receive the messages via Bluetooth. Visitors to local libraries will be able to pick up a bookmark with useful info about the support groups available.

You can download your own copies of the poster below .  You will require Abobe Reader to view these PDF files.


Bookmark with: