For information about support around Sexual Misconduct and Harassment at the University Of Leicester, please visit: Sexual Misconduct & Sexual Harassment page & Sexual Misconduct and Harassment Policy
What is Sexual Assault, Violence and Harassment?
Sexual violence and harassment involve all unwanted sexual behaviour. This can happen in person or online, and can affect people of any gender identity.
Examples can include:
- Sexual comments, jokes or questions
- Sharing sexual photos or information about someone without their permission
- Stalking or repeatedly following someone
- Unwanted touching, groping or grinding
- Sexual assault
- Rape
What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is any unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that makes someone feel uncomfortable, distressed, intimidated or humiliated.
For example, this could include:
- Making sexual jokes or comments
- Asking inappropriate or personal sexual questions
- Sending unwanted sexual messages or images
- Stalking, following or repeatedly contacting someone
If someone says they are uncomfortable, asks you to stop, or shows that they do not want the behaviour to continue, it is important to stop.
What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault is when someone carries out a sexual act towards another person without their consent.
This could include unwanted:
· Touching
· Groping
· Kissing
· Grinding or sexual contact
Sexual assault can have a physical, psychological and emotional impact on someone.
What is rape?
Rape is a form of sexual assault that involves penetration without consent. This can involve penetration of the vagina, anus or mouth.
Consent is an ongoing conversation. It is not about assuming or guessing what another person wants. It is about communicating, listening and respecting their choice.
What does consent sound like?
Consent can sound like:
- “Yes, I'd like to.”
- “I'm comfortable with this.”
- “Is this okay?”
And a person can change their mind:
- “Actually, I don't want to.”
- “Can we stop?”
- “I'm not comfortable anymore.”
- “I want to go home.”
What if someone isn't sure? - If it's not a clear yes, pause and check in.
A simple way to understand consent is using the acronym, F.R.I.E.S
Impact of Sexual Assault, Violence and Harassment
All of these behaviours are equally unacceptable. If this happens to you, it’s important to remember it is not your fault and you are not responsible.
Impacts of Sexual Violence and Harassment
What to do if you or someone else has experienced sexual assault, violence or harassment:
If someone does not respect your consent or crosses a sexual boundary, it is not your fault. If you have experienced unwanted sexual behaviour, you do not have to deal with it alone. Support is available, and you can choose to talk to someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, tutor, student support service or another professional.
You can make a report to the police by making an online crime report, contacting 101 non-emergency line, or attending your local police station.
You can speak to a member of the Standing Together team by making a disclosure on our Report and Support system. A member of the team will contact you initially, and can continue providing support on available safety and reporting options if this is something you wish to pursue.
Juniper Lodge (Sexual Assault Referral Centre) (0116 2221542) - discrete medical, emotional, and practical support to anyone that has been subject to sexual assault. If you would like support in travelling to Juniper Lodge, call University security on 0116 252 2023
Jasmine House (0116 255 5962) - free and confidential services following any form of sexual violence either recently or in the past
First Step (0116 254 8535) - supporting male rape and sexual abuse survivors & their supporters living in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
Survivors UK (0203 5983 898) - offers a helpline and online advice for male survivors of sexual assault and rape
Quetzal Project (0333 101 4280) - supporting women recovering from the trauma of childhood abuse
For further information, self-help tools and to find support outside of Leicestershire please visit the Rape Crisis website or call 0808 802 9999
Below you can find important information from the NHS on your legal rights and how to access help for past or current sexual abuse or assault.
Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse Leaflet- English
Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse Leaflet- Albanian
Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse Leaflet- Arabic
Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse Leaflet- Farsi
Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse Leaflet- Kurdish
Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse Leaflet- Pashto
The University of Leicester is committed to protecting freedom of speech within the law. This means students, staff and visitors can share and discuss ideas, even where others may disagree.
However, this does not include behaviour that is unlawful, such as harassment, discrimination or abuse.
If you feel you have experienced this, you can disclose it and be heard through our Report and Support tool