31 percent of reported Lancashire rapes happen within relationships as new campaign is launched

Julie Vigo-Saunders, health independent sexual violence advisor, PCC Clive Grunshaw and Gaye Soruri, and senior independent sexual violence advisor for LVS

The campaign, funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw as part of Sexual Violence Awareness Week, raises awareness of sexual violence, particularly within relationships and urges anyone affected to seek help from Lancashire Victim Services (LVS).

Mr Grunshaw said at the launch of the campaign: “We know that 31 percent of all reported rapes in Lancashire happen within relationships.

“This is shocking and we have to send out a clear message that being in a relationship does not equate to having the right to force or coerce your partner into anything they don’t want to do.

“If you are in a relationship where that choice is taken away from you I would urge you to contact Lancashire Victim Services for support and advice, even if you don’t want to report to the police.”

For more information and advice visit lancashirevictimservices.org