crime

Grapevine is launching it's new texting service , U2Us this week. The service will use latest technology to provide, quality, up to date information, advice and support to young people direct to their mobile phones.

Young people can text on 0780 007 4927 and ask our trained volunteers (other young people) for information and support on a wide range of issues.

U2Us can also be used by a range of professionals working with young people either to receive information, send information to and consult with young people.

For more info text to 0780 007 4927, call Grapevine on 01242 255888 or leave a message on this site.

Two more issues that might affect you:

Shoplifting

Shoplifting is theft. Shops have the right to protect themselves against it by the use of security cameras and store detectives. Shops and some shopping precincts are private property, so you can be kept out or asked to leave. Store detectives, security guards and shop staff have the same rights as everyone else - if they have good reason to think that somebody has committed a crime, they can make a -?citizens arrest'. They can stop the suspected person and hold them until the police arrive. If this happens to you it is best to wait quietly and say nothing until the police arrive. You may be well advised to say nothing to the police. If you are arrested, ask for the duty solicitor immediately. Store staff, including security guards and store detectives, have no right to search you unless you agree.

Indecent Assault

It is an offence to touch or threaten a person in an indecent way. Groping and unwanted fondling can come into this category. Indecent assault carries a punishment of up to two years imprisonment, and if it is against a girl under thirteen, up to five years.

Rape

Any person, male or female, over the age of 10 who has intercourse with someone who doesn't want them to, and who knows that this person is not consenting or takes no care as to whether she or he does, commits the crime of rape. It's also an offence to threaten or force a person to have sex against their will, or to give them drugs in the hope that she or he will give in. If somebody helps a rapist to find a victim, or assists in a rape (by holding the victim down or drugging them, for instance) they will also be charged with rape.

Harassment is any form of unwanted and unwelcome behaviour, which may range from mildly unpleasant remarks to physical violence.

The Protection from Harassment Act states that a person must not pursue another when they know it amounts to harassment.

Racial Harassment

If a person is harassed due to their skin colour, race or cultural background then you are also protected by the Race Relations Act.

Racist attacks and violence are serious criminal offences and must be reported to the police. Racially Aggravated Offences carry higher penalties than offences with other motivation. It is also against the law to use threatening, abusive or insulting language or behaviour in order to stir up racial hatred.

A mugger is someone who intends to rob you, often with the threat of assault, which makes it hard to be prepared in any way. Even so, it's vital that your personal safety comes first, so think before you act. Do you put up a fight, make a big noise, attempt to run away or just submit to their demands? Only you can decide, based on the situation as it unfolds, just don't do anything that increases the risk of getting hurt. Choosing to comply without resistance won't make you less of a victim, or weaken your case in any way. What counts is that you protected yourself in the best way you could, and anyone from family and friends to the police will recognise that and respect you for it.