How responsible are you when out drinking?
In part one of our debate on alcohol and sexual assault, our panellists discuss what role drink plays in their nights out and whether someone who wears provocative clothing is responsible if they are sexually assaulted.
Are you in danger when you get drunk? Tell us what you think and join in the discussion on our boards.
Watch more of the debate:
- Are you putting yourself at risk of sexual assault?
- How do you judge consent if someone is drunk?
- Where should you go for help following a sexual assault?
- What prevents people coming forward and reporting rape?
- Are victims of sexual assault at fault because they've drunk too much?
- Do you know your limits when you drink?
About the panellists
Suzanne, 20, is currently studying law at Lancaster University and has already completed criminal law work placements, attended court sessions and has a firm grasp of issues relating to alcohol and sexual violence. She also volunteers with her local Citizen's Advice Bureau. She believes that, "a lot of women [who are sexually assaulted] blame themselves for being drunk and for putting themselves in that situation ... which is wrong."
Luke, 22, is studying English at Loughborough University and writes for the local student magazine. He believes, "there is a growing problem with young people and alcohol in this country. The best way to conquer this is to improve education."
Lauren, 18, is at college studying A-levels. She works part-time as a waitress and was a former member of the British Youth Council. She thinks, "you never really know someone until you see them with alcohol - you can see a different side to them when they've had a drink."
Jonathan, 20, is studying maths and French at Aberdeen University and writes articles for the university newspaper. He also works in a bar, so has experience of seeing how people relate to alcohol and how they socialise in and around pubs. He says that, "when you turn up at university, you're offered drinks for less than a pound. It's not a good thing to offer such huge amounts of alcohol for such cheap amounts."
Anita Naik, our debate host, is an experienced author and writes regularly on the subjects of health, sex, relationships and lifestyle and was previously the agony aunt on Just 17, More, B and TV Quick magazines. Find out more about Anita on her website.
Updated: 03/02/2012
