Torbay scheme to highlight sexual risks of binge drinking (From Mid Devon Star)

Torbay scheme to highlight sexual risks of binge drinking

8:00am Friday 26th September 2008

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Torbay police are launching a scheme to highlight the risks women face because of binge drinking.

The SASH (sexual attack and sexual health) project was designed to high-light the risks associated with excessive drinking, specifically the risks for women.

The scheme has been designed in partnership with Torbay council, the Police, taxi companies and local businesses.

These groups all play a vital role in making sure the public stay stafe while enjoying Torbay's night life.

Acting sergeant Dave Pebworth from Torquay police said: “The project has been designed to tackle two specific issues surrounding excessive drinking - that of sexual attacks on drunk or vulnerable females and also that of the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections through unprotected sexual intercourse.”

The campaign will be launched on Saturday, 27 September with the SASH packs handed out from 1.30 am on Sunday, September 28.

The small lightweight packs will be distributed from clubs and pubs within the project area. They will include a pouch for extinguishing cigarettes, condoms, advice leaflets and bottled water amongst other items. The packs also highlight the risk of excessive drinking and risks to sexual health and aim to illustrate the heightened risk of sexual attack when drunk.

Sgt Pebworth said: “All licensed premises within the project area will be briefed on the project and will be encouraged to tackle any behaviour they feel inappropriate within their premises.

“They will be asked to challenge males buying large quantities of alcohol for females or anyone who is suspected of taking advantage of females’ vulnerabilities.

“All taxi drivers will receive a letter stating what we want them to do if they have concerns for females who appear vulnerable through excessive drinking.

“We want drivers to proactively police their cabs and challenge behaviour they think inappropriate within their cars. If in doubt we want drivers to contact police and ask for assistance”.

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