Consent

1/9

Thanks to Brockenhurst College for providing the images

Sex is a big deal

Whether it's your first, third or 35th time, there are a few elements to consent that you should always consider. It doesn't matter if you are single or in a relationship, if someone pressures you into sex, it is rape and a form of sexual abuse.

Remember your rights

1. Right to feel safe

If you feel you are at harm in any way you do not have to

go through with it.

2. Right not to be pressured

It doesn't matter what all your mates have done, if you are

not ready, or simply don't want to, that's ok. Regardless of

what other people say, you don't have to have sex with

someone to show them you care.

Pressure isn't always physical, it could be someone

blackmailing or threatening you.

3. Right to contraception

You have every right to use contraception, and

understand what it means for you. You might not be ready for children or you simply don't want any nasty surprises. Check out Brook for more low down on contraception

How does the law define consent?

The Sexual Offences Act 2003 states that a person has consented 'if she or he agrees by choice, and has the freedom and capacity to make that choice'. There is an emphasis on choice - it should be a deliberate decision that is freely made. Further to this under capacity is included age (a person has to be over the age of 16 to legally consent to sex), if they are able to understand what they are consenting to and if they are intoxicated by alcohol or affected by drugs.

Consent is as simple as tea!

This information is up to date as of 28th March 2019 and will not be updated soon