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Trauma, consent and sexual harm

This section HELPs you recognise sexual abuse, understand its traumatic impact, and what consent is.

Trigger warning: this content contains descriptions of sexual harm.
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How to recognise sexual harm

You are not sure if you’ve experienced sexual abuse? Or you’re not sure if a close one could have experienced it? It’s okay, we’re here to HELP you recognise the signs. Sexual harm happens when sexual activity occurs without consent. It can occur to anyone of any age, gender, and sexuality.

Some examples of sexual harm include:
  • Unwanted touching
  • Vaginal, anal, or oral penetration
  • Being made to penetrate someone or something
  • Being made to watch or make pornography
  • Being made to do something sexual, such as masturbate
  • Image based sexual harm/'revenge pornography' e.g. sending a nude photo to someone else without the consent of the person in the photo. This can include images, videos or voice recordings.

Understand the impact of trauma

The impact of trauma can be subtle or deeply destructive. It affects everyone differently, shaped by their experiences, personality, and environment. That’s why we’re here, to HELP you understand it.

Trauma is a distressing experience that causes physical, emotional, or spiritual harm. People respond to trauma in different ways. It’s important to remember that there is no one “right” way to respond.

Shock, denial, fear, anxiety, detachment, anger, and numbness are all common ways to feel after experiencing trauma. It can be difficult to manage on your own. Reaching out for support can HELP you to cope with it.

Let's talk about consent

Someone cannot give consent if:
  • They are under 16
  • They are too drunk
  • They are too high
  • There is any use of force, pressure, coercion, or deception
  • They are asleep or unconscious
  • They are affected by an intellectual, mental or physical condition or impairment that means they are unable to communicate their consent or refuse consent
  • They are mistaken about what kind of sexual activity is happening

Consent is:
  • Active, enthusiastic, and freely given
  • Free to be withdrawn at any time
  • Necessary for every sexual activity