A ‘PLAY Pause Stop’ campaign has been launched to cut rape and sexual assault incidents in the run-up to Christmas.

The drive, by Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support, (SARSAS, formerly Bristol Rape Crisis) is backed by its patron and founder of the Everyday Sexism project, Laura Bates.

The campaign rolls out ahead of the festive season when people are most likely to socialise with friends and colleagues and also in the company of people they do not know.

It follows official figures that report almost a third increase in reported rape cases, concerns about the conduct of some male university students, and a dramatic surge in calls to the Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support service.

Laura Bates told the Weekly News: “It is vital that we raise the issue of consent to help prevent sexual assault and rape.

There is currently an extremely high level of confusion and misinformation surrounding consent, which is very worrying, particularly against the wider backdrop of violence against women and girls.

It is vital that clear information is available and that we emphasise that enthusiastic consent is an essential and non-negotiable part of any sexual activity.”

SARSAS works closely with Bristol University and other universities and colleges in the region, as well as their wider network, to raise awareness of the issue.

Call the SARSAS Helpline free on 0808 801 0456.