POLICE across Dorset are reaching out to victims of rape - and warning perpetrators that sex is only acceptable if both people consent.
Dorset Police have said if there is no consent given freely, and that person is impaired due to drink or drugs - it is also not consent.
In response to this warning, information is being provided to the public on what to do in case of emergency or how to seek help if a victim of rape.
A spokesman from the Dorset Police said: "Sex without consent is rape. No ifs, no buts, no excuses.
"There's no consent if agreement has been forced or coerced and not given freely.
"There's no consent if a person is impaired through drink, drugs or is not conscious.
"In an emergency always call 999."
There are several organisations across the south west area which can help including The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) 0800 970 9954, Sexual Trauma and Recovery Services (STARS Dorset) 01202 308840, You First (Sexual Violence Advocate) 0800 032 5204, Southwest Victim Care Unit 0300 3030 163 - or the National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999.
Read more on: www.dorset.police.uk/consent
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