CHESHIRE Police have urged the public to understand the importance of making sure you get sexual consent.

Following the broadcast of a TV programme asking a group of teenagers and viewers at home to decide whether they believe someone had committed rape.

The programme focussed on a party where two people had been drinking alcohol and the question hanging over the scenario was around consent.

John Dwyer, police and crime commissioner for Cheshire said: “Rape and sexual assaults are one of the most serious crimes that the police deal with, and the repercussions for the victim and the offender can have life changing consequences. 

“In the case featured on the TV program the question was raised around the impact of alcohol and consent and the importance of making sure you give or get consent.” 

Detective Chief Superintendent Serena Kennedy, head of the Public Protection Directorate added: “In many cases of rape or sexual assault, the victim usually knows the offender. 

"The scenario on the TV programme highlighted the issue of consent and alcohol. 

"In these situations people can assume that they have consent when they have not. This is no excuse - consent to sexual activity is very defined in law and it must be given fully and freely. 

"It is not a crime to have too much to drink but it is a crime for a rapist to target somebody who unable to consent to sex through drink."

To report a sexual assault or rape call Cheshire Police on 101 or if you are in immediate danger call 999.

DC Supt Kennedy said: “We’re here for victims and our officers are determined to get justice for them.

“If anyone has been subjected to a sexual assault they need to tell us about it. 
"I would urge anyone reading this, who has been subjected to a sexual assault to talk to us. We’ll listen and we care about you." 

Thames Valley Police have released a short film titled Consent, it’s as simple as tea.