Understanding Sexual Violence
Parents and guardians often need a clear understanding of what sexual violence entails to better support their child.
What is Sexual Violence?
Sexual violence encompasses any sexual act or attempt to obtain a sexual act through coercion, force, or manipulation. It can include a range of behaviours, from inappropriate touching to rape, and can happen in person or online. It’s important to emphasise that it’s never the survivor’s fault.
Forms of Sexual Violence
Sexual Abuse: Any form of sexual activity imposed on someone, including touching, exposure to sexual content, or forcing someone to engage in sexual acts.
Rape: Under UK law, rape is defined as non-consensual penetration with a penis of the vagina, anus, or mouth of another person.
Sexual Assault: Unwanted sexual touching or contact without consent.
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE): A form of abuse where a child is manipulated or coerced into sexual activity in exchange for something, such as gifts, money, or affection.
Online Sexual Abuse: Abuse that takes place over the internet, including grooming, sharing explicit images, or coercing children into sexual acts online.
