Consent and the law
What is consent?
To take part in any kind of sexual activity, everyone involved has to consent - in other words they need to agree to what's happening.
If you feel pressured or scared, you can say no and stop at any time.
If someone you're with looks uncomfortable, or if they are obviously not enjoying themselves, then you must stop. Don't carry on just because they haven't said no. Sexual activity without consent is a criminal offence.
Still confused? Watch the video below which explains consent very simply.
Consent and the law
In the UK, the legal age of consent is 16. This means that, legally, a person under 16 cannot consent to sexual activity.
It is important to remember that the law is designed to protect young people from abuse, harm or being taken advantage of by adults. It is not meant to criminalise young people and there is no intention to prosecute young people aged between 13 to 15 where both mutually agree (consent) and where they are of a similar age.
Recognising consent
If the person you are with says no or asks you to stop, then there's really no doubt - you stop and check they're OK. Where it can get a bit confusing is if they're too scared or nervous to say no - and that's when it's up to you to do the right thing.
These tips should help avoid any confusion:
- Check you and your partner are both comfortable before sex happens.
- Take note of your partner’s body language during any sexual activity – if they are clearly not comfortable and not enjoying it, then stop.
- You or your partner can change your mind about consent at any time - if this happens it's important to accept it, not to get angry and to check your partner is OK.
When to stop
- If your partner has said no, accept how they feel and don't put pressure on them to change their mind.
- If someone is drunk, under the influence of drugs, passed out or asleep, they cannot give consent.
- If you are not sure if your partner has given consent, then stop.
- If you have agreed to use contraception, but don't have any when it comes to having sex, stop and get some.
Reporting sexual assault
If you’re the victim of rape or sexual assault, the police and other organisations are here to help. Call 999 to report a rape or attempted sexual assault as soon as possible after the crime.
The Harbour Centre is a sexual assault referral centre. They offer free healthcare and compassionate support in Norfolk to people of all ages who have experienced sexual assault, including rape.
