Consent and the law

Consent means to agree to something, and the word can be used in lots of different situations. When it comes to sex specifically, to consent means to agree to have sex or engage in sexual activity. When someone consents to something it does not mean they will not change their mind in the future. You should not feel pressured to consent to any sexual activity. This should always happen by mutual consent. You can read more on sex and consent on the Childline website so you are well informed to make your choices. 

Sex or sexual activity can include kissing, sexual touching, oral, anal and vaginal sex with a penis or with any other type of object.

Understanding the law - sexual consent

Consent means agreeing to do something. When it comes to sex, this means agreeing to take part in a sexual activity.

The Sexual Offences Act 2003 (England and Wales) defines consent as when a person ‘agrees by choice and has the capacity to make that choice’.

The charity Brook gives explanations of:

Age of consent 

The age of consent is 16 and having sex under this age is against the law. What if you, or the person you want to sleep with, are under age? The facts and law about under-age sex in the UK can be found on The Mix website.

The Mix takes on the embarrassing problems, weird questions, and please-don’t-make-me-say-it-out-loud thoughts that people under 25 have in order to give them the best support through both digital and phone services.

 Safeguarding information and support : 

Report a concern about a child

 

Designated Nurse for Safeguarding Children in Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB.

If you would like to learn more about safeguarding, please find relevant links below: