by Jo Sword

“No consent, no sex”

That's the message being given out to revellers as the party season gets under way.

A new rape campaign has been launched by Kent Police and Kent charity Family Matters to remind people of the dangers and the consequences.

The initiative comes as Gravesend-based Family Matters announces it has been given funding for two new Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) for the county. One will deal especially with young people.

The money is coming from Kent Police, the Government and the Kent Criminal Justice Board.

The ISVA service is confidential and those wishing to access the support it offers can do so without ever having to report to the police if they choose not to.

Rebecca Macey, the North West Kent and Medway ISVA at Family Matters said: “This is about getting tailored support to very vulnerable victims and making sure they get what they need to recover from the trauma of sexual violence.”

Family Matters operations director Malcolm Gilbert said: “Of the 100 rape victims we saw last year one third were aged between 12-16, including one boy.

“This year we are likely to see more than 200 and the proportion of youngsters remains the same. A properly supported rape victim is far more likely to go to court and give evidence and therefore increase the conviction rate for this dreadful crime.”

Audio: KMFM's Katie Lamborn speaks to Malcolm Gilbert from Family Matters

Kent Police have these tips to keep safe on a night out:

• Eat a sensible meal before or during your night out
• Plan your evening and pre-book a licensed taxi
• Avoid being alone at any time - try and stay in a group
• Avoid mixing drinks and try having a soft drink at regular intervals
• Never leave drinks unattended
• Never accept drinks from strangers
• Never leave anyone to get home on their own
• Do not accept cigarettes from anyone unless you see them open the packet
• Tell a family member or friend about your plans for the evening
• Appoint a 'drink watcher' who will stay relatively sober to make sure everyone is safe

Head of Kent Police's public protection unit, Detective Superintendent Paul Fotheringham, said: “We take all allegations of rape extremely seriously and people are treated in confidence.

“We encourage people to report offences at the earliest opportunity. Our specially trained officers will work with the victim and put them in touch with others, including Family Matters, so that together we can help them work through this kind of traumatic experience.

“Those convicted of offences can face lengthy jail terms along with being placed on the national sex offenders register for life.”

For more information head to www.familymattersuk.org