Women's rights groups have criticised an “irresponsible” police poster which they say blames victims and their friends for sexual attacks.

Sussex Police released the poster depicting two young women getting ready for a night out with a message encouraging groups to stick together to avoid sexual assault.

Activists have slammed the poster which they say promotes a culture of victim blaming.

Sarah Green, acting director of The End Violence Against Women Coalition, said she found the poster “infuriating”.

She said: “We need to get beyond police campaigns giving instructions to women on how to behave to be safe. We need to talk to those who may perpetrate rape and deter them.”

The poster is part of a campaign to prevent rape and will be posted in pub and club bathrooms and bus stops.

Over the summer security staff and taxi drivers will also be given special coaching by the police on how to spot vulnerable victims.

Fabia Bates, director of the Survivors’ Network, said: “It is a shame as Sussex Police has made great strides to encourage people to report sexual violence and there is the possibility this could damage people’s confidence.

“We are also concerned this suggests those other than the perpetrator are responsible.

“We are here to support anyone who has been the victim and will not judge anyone – it is never the victim’s fault.”

She added she was also concerned the poster spoke to only a “small proportion of society”.

Daisy Cooper, Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for Mid Sussex, called for the police to withdraw the poster.

She said: “Victim blaming is a universal phenomenon. It appears we are taking a step backwards.”

Chief Inspector Katy Woolford said the campaign followed research into ways to help vulnerable or at-risk people.

She said: “Rape is never a victim’s fault, but as with all crimes we can reduce the number of victims in several ways.”

CI Woolford added: “We would be failing in our response if, as with any other crime, we did not recognise that there are victims and urge them to take steps to minimise risks and help safeguard others from becoming victims.

“It is vital to be aware of vulnerability so that steps can be taken to guard against it. Friends and bystanders can play a key role in this, learning to recognise where their intervention may prevent a crime taking place.”