what is sexual assault?
Sexual assault can take many shapes. Here are some examples that may reflect your experience:
Sexual harassment and sexual touching
Rape, non-penetrative and penetrative sexual assault
Non-contact sexual crimes, such as grooming and indecent images of children, forcing people to do sexual things to themselves, and sharing sexual images of an adult without their consent (sometimes called ‘revenge porn’).
Unwanted advances or force you into sexual contact or unsafe sex
Sexual abuse and violence can take place within relationships or between family members and can often be a part of domestic abuse. If you consent to something because you are afraid or you have been pressured into it, it is not consent. Some examples of sexual abuse are:
Rape or sexual assault. This can be any sexual act you did not consent to. It can include forced kissing, touching, or penetration. If you have experienced this recently, find advice on getting treatment and support here.
Having sex with you when you are unable to consent, for example if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol which may affect your ability to consent.
Using force, threats, guilt, manipulation, or intimidation to make you perform sexual acts.
Forcing you to have sex with other people or to become a sex worker.
Forcing you to have sex or watch pornography in front of children.
Degrading you during sex, such as calling you names, spitting, biting, punching or hurting you.