1 sexual assault a week reported by women, on average, in Jersey over the last decade

Credit: PA Images

There has been an average of 1 alleged sexual assault a week targeting women and girls in Jersey over the last 10 years.

A recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request has revealed that 775 sexual assaults on women have been reported since 2008.

More than half of those assaults were reportedly carried out on children.

Jersey Police are today launching an anti-rape campaign as new sexual offence laws come into force at the end of the week.

One of the States of Jersey police campaign posters. Credit: States of Jersey Police

The force say they want to "send out a strong message that rape is not about a misunderstanding of consent but it is about power and control and predatory behaviour".

The updated sexual offences law is expected to provide greater protection for sexual assault victims "of any gender".

When the law comes into force later this month, those accused of rape will have to prove they took steps to ensure they got consent.

Anyone in need of support can contact:

  • Jersey Action Against Rape on their helpline (01534 482800) or on their website.

  • Jersey Women's Refuge on 0800 7356836 or their website.