27/02/2021
• Not saying NO is NOT consent.
If your partner didn’t clearly and in full awareness say YES, be mindful and attentive – they might not want to engage in the s*xual activity or are not capable (for example, due to the alcohol or drug influence) to fully comprehend the situation. Step back and ask your potential partner if they really want to proceed.
• Consent is FREELY GIVEN.
Consent can’t be given under pressure, manipulation, or the influence of drugs or alcohol. If the person is afraid to say no, it doesn’t mean they agree to it.
• Consent can be REVOKED at any time.
If your partner said YES and later on changed their mind, you need to stop. Even if you’ve done it before or lie naked in bed. If you proceed despite their objection, it is r**e or s*xual assault.
• If the person is too drunk, on drugs, or unconscious, they CAN’T give consent.
By insisting on having s*x with them, you will be committing s*xual assault or r**e. Also, some people living with a mental health problem, a learning disability, or a head injury may not have the capacity to consent.
• If you consent to one thing, it DOESN’T mean you consent to the other.
For example, if you agreed to make out, it doesn’t have to mean you agreed to have s*x.
• If your partner seems unhappy, or you are not sure they are consenting, STOP.
Be attentive to your partner’s body language and facial expressions as well as words. If they don’t seem to enjoy it, stop it.
• “If she is dressed like that/behaves like that/goes there, she’s asking for it.” - NOT TRUE
Consent is NEVER implied by things like your past, your behaviour, your clothes, or places you go. There can be NO assumptions. If the person hasn’t verbally agreed to the s*xual activity, there is no consent.
*xualhealth