Get Consent

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Consent is a subject that must be talked about in order to prevent rape and sexual crime, and to keep people safe.

Consent is not a one-off - it can be withdrawn at any time. Most rapes occur in established relationships or are committed by someone known to the victim.

Being in any form of relationship, whether it’s a first date or a long-term partnership, does not give the right to sex without consent. Sex without consent, whatever the length of your relationship, is rape.

What is consent? Know the facts

Police Scotland’s Get Consent campaign gives a makes it clear that sex without consent is rape – whatever the circumstances.

It is essential to understand that if a person does not, or is unable to give consent to sex for whatever reason, then this is rape.

Support and information for victims of rape

Tackling sexual crime is a priority for Police Scotland. If you are a victim of rape or sexual crime, we understand how difficult it can be to report.

We are committed to supporting victims of rape and sexual crime regardless of when the incident happened. We have specially trained officers who are here to help and support you.

We work closely with partners to provide a service that meets the needs of victims and to encourage victims of rape and sexual crimes to report offences.

Call Police Scotland on 101 or contact the Rape Crisis Scotland National Helpline on 08088 01 03 02 (daily 6pm-12 midnight). In an emergency always call 999.