What is consent?
Sexual consent means partners agree to the sexual activity and understand what they’re agreeing to. Consent is the foundation of healthy sexual relationships. Consent must be given for every sexual activity, every time. Sexual consent is about a person’s right to make their own choice about sexual activity.
You can’t assume that because you’ve had sex with a person before, you have their consent. Most people have heard “no means no”. Saying no always means consent isn’t being given.
Giving Consent
There are many ways to give consent. It can be given by words or actions. You have the right to change your mind about sexual activity and consent. Even once you’ve started, you can stop sexual activity.
Getting Consent
The only way to know for sure that partners are giving consent is to ask. Consider these questions:
- Do you want to?
- Are you happy with this?
- Do you want to stop?
Also think about non-verbal behaviour. A partner may turn away, their muscles may tense up, or they might cross their arms over their body. If you get any of these non-verbal cues, stop what you’re doing and talk about it.
