Sussex Police defend sexual assault poster blasted as 'victim blaming'

Sussex Police have defended a poster which critics said blamed women for becoming victims of sexual assault.

The force issued the new poster last week with the line: "Which one of your mates is most vulnerable on a night out? The one you leave behind."

When launching the poster the force called it an 'innovative' approach:

However campaigners have blasted the campaign:

But the force has defended the poster saying it is designed to raise awareness and help prevent offences.

Sussex Police have confirmed that they do not intend to withdraw the poster and told ITV News: "Rape is never a victim's fault, but as with all crimes we can reduce the number of victims in several ways. After months of research and talking to partner agencies and people working within the night-time economy, we're urging people to intervene when someone appears to be vulnerable or at risk. Door supervisors, taxi drivers, bar staff and groups of friends or the wider public need to take responsibility to protect others from those who may cause them harm."