Rape is defined by the Sexual Offences Act 2003 as any sexual activity, especially penile penetration, without consent. Consent must be:

• freely given
• reversible 
• informed 
• enthusiastic
• specific 

Common rape myths include: 

• perpetrators do not rape people that are known to them 
• rape does not occur in relationships
• victims lie about rape for attention or revenge
• clothing or behaviour invites rape
• men can’t be raped
• if someone didn’t say “no,” it wasn’t rape
• victims must report immediately

Stealthing is the non-consensual removal of a condom during sex, or deliberately sabotaging its use, without the other person’s knowledge or agreement. It is harmful because:

• violates bodily autonomy and trust
• increases risk of STIs and pregnancy
• can cause trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress
• undermines the principle of informed, mutual consent

Child sexual assault refers to any sexual activity forced upon or involving a child, and it is a serious criminal offence and a form of child abuse. It can include:

• sexual touching or penetration
• forcing or coercing a child to engage in sexual acts
• exposing a child to sexual content or behaviour
• constant criticism or belittling
• encouraging a child to perform sexual acts
• sexual exploitation, including grooming or trafficking

Voyeurism is a criminal offence in the UK that involves watching, recording, or photographing someone in a private act without their consent, for the purpose of sexual gratification. This can include:

• observing someone who is naked, undressing, or engaging in a sexual act
• doing so without their knowledge or consent
• for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification

Upskirting and downblousing are also classified under this offence and refer to the act of taking a photo or video under a person’s clothing without their consent, typically to view their genitals or underwear

Sexploitation is a term used to describe the abuse or exploitation of someone for sexual purposes, often involving coercion, manipulation, or abuse of power.. This can include:

• manipulating someone into sexual acts or sharing sexual images
• using threats, blackmail, or emotional pressure to force sexual compliance
• exploiting someone’s vulnerability, trust, or dependence for sexual gain
• profiting from or distributing sexual content without consent
• recording or sharing sexual content without consent
• pressuring someone into sexual activity in exchange for favours or safety
• forced participation in pornography or group sex  

Sexual humiliation refers to behaviour that is intended to degrade, shame, or embarrass someone in a sexual way, often as part of coercive control or abuse. This can include:

• using sexual language or actions to intimidate or belittle
• forcing someone to engage in or witness sexual acts that cause shame or distress
• mocking or criticising someone’s body, sexuality, or sexual performance
• publicly or privately exposing someone’s sexual history or preferences without consent
• using sex as a tool for punishment, control, or ridicule