Consent and sexual assault
Consent is vital in all sexual activity. When drugs are involved, people don’t always think clearly. Things can change rapidly resulting in someone being less able to consent.
Check for consent
Check in with your partner at regular intervals, making sure they’re able to maintain eye contact with you, focus and respond to you verbally. If it looks like they are becoming confused or drowsy or their movements are strange, stop straight away.
Intervene
If you witness someone engaging in sex with someone who no longer consents or appears unable to consent, consider intervening if you feel it is safe to do so. Look after each other and help others if you feel unhappy with what you are witnessing.
Move to a safe space
If something happens to you without your consent, if possible, consider leaving the situation and move to a safe space.
Getting immediate help
If you feel trapped or under threat call emergency services immediately on 999 if you can.
Report it
If you are the victim of a sexual assault you may decide to report it to the police. To report a crime, you can call 999 in an emergency or contact your local police station.
Seek further support
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, and you’re not sure whether you want to talk to the police, you can talk to someone first who’s been trained in dealing with sexual assault. Galop can help you explore your options. They won’t talk to the police unless you ask them to. Call their free helpline on 0800 999 5428 or their chatbox available 24/7. Survivors UK also offer support specifically designed for men and non-binary people affected by sexual violence.