Consent and safety
What consent means
Clear, plain words about saying yes, saying no, and respecting both.
Who it is for: Teenagers and young adults.
Format: Text, about 4 minutes to read
Consent means a clear, free 'yes' to something. It applies to touch, kissing, sex, photos and messages. Nobody is owed any of it, whatever the relationship, and whatever has happened before.
Consent is
- Freely given. A 'yes' under pressure, threat or fear is not consent.
- Specific. Yes to one thing is not yes to everything.
- Changeable. Anyone can change their mind, at any time.
- Sober and aware. Someone who is asleep, drunk or frightened cannot consent.
- Never assumed from silence, from what someone wore, or from being in a relationship.
Asking and listening
Ask. Listen to words, and to a body that looks scared or stiff. If you hear 'no', 'not now' or hesitation, stop. Respecting a 'no' is part of respecting someone.
If someone crossed a line with you
It is not your fault. You can tell a trusted person. In India, sexual acts with anyone under 18 are crimes under the POCSO Act 2012, and the law protects young people who report. The Women Helpline (181) and Childline (1098) can guide you, and in an emergency call 112.
If you made a mistake with someone, listen, stop, and do not blame them. You can learn and do better.
This is general information. It is not a substitute for care from a doctor or counsellor. If someone is in immediate danger, call 112.
Related resources
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Practical steps for phones and social media, including what to do about sextortion.
- Activity, 2 min
Breathing for hard moments
A slow breathing exercise for when worry or anger feels too big.
- Activity, 3 min
Grounding with your five senses
A one-minute way to come back to the room you are in when your mind is racing.