Police investigating rape claims in England believe victim-blaming myths, study finds

Research reveals attitudes that could be contributing to the 1.6% charge rate in rape cases

Government-funded researchers have uncovered striking" evidence that rape myths - such as the belief that a woman's behaviour plays a part in her rape - are believed by police officers investigating allegations of the crime.

A study of specialist rape and sexual offences officers in one large police force gives a rare snapshot into attitudes which researchers warn could be contributing to the 1.6% charge rate in rape cases in England and Wales.

In the UK, Rape Crisis offers support for rape and sexual abuse on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, or 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland. In the US, Rainn offers support on 800-656-4673. In Australia, support is available at 1800Respect (1800 737 732). Other international helplines can be found at ibiblio.org/rcip/internl.html