Sexual Assault and Rape
Rape happens when someone didn't want to have sex or didn't give their consent for sex to happen.
Sexual assault refers to many different forms of sexual violence – it is an umbrella term used to describe any sexual activity or act that happened without your consent.
It could include:
Sexual assault refers to many different forms of sexual violence – it is an umbrella term used to describe any sexual activity or act that happened without your consent.
It could include:
- Kissing.
- Attempted rape.
- Touching someone’s breasts or genitals – including through clothing.
- Touching any other part of the body for sexual pleasure or in a sexual manner – for example, stroking someone’s thigh or rubbing their back.
- Pressing up against another person for sexual pleasure.
- Pressuring, manipulating or scaring someone into performing a sexual act on the perpetrator.
- Touching someone’s clothing if done for sexual pleasure or in a sexual manner – for example, lifting up someone’s skirt.
However, please know that this is not a full list. Just because something isn’t included here doesn’t mean it isn’t sexual assault.
It’s happened to me
If you have experienced sexual assault or rape, it is not your fault and you are not alone. Visit our support pages on sexual assault and rape for further advice and support.
It’s happened to someone I know
Supporting a survivor of sexual assault or rape can be daunting you don't have to be an expert to support someone but there are some things you can do that will help.