Sexual violence and harassment include all unwanted sexual behaviours. This could include verbal comments, sharing sexual photos/information online, stalking, groping and inappropriate touching. These behaviours are usually categorised as sexual harassment, sexual assault, and rape.
- Sexual harassment is any unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that you find offensive or which makes you feel distressed, intimidated or humiliated. Examples of this behaviour could include rude jokes, stalking/ following, or asking inappropriate questions.
- The overall definition of Sexual Assault is an act of physical, psychological and emotional violation, in the form of a sexual act, inflicted upon someone without their consent. Examples of this behaviour could include touching, groping, grinding.
- Rape is a type of sexual assault usually involving sexual intercourse or other forms of penetration (into the mouth, anus or vagina) carried out against a person without their consent. Consent needs to be ongoing and not forced and from all parties. All genders can be raped and there is support available if this is something you have experienced.
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.
