A person commits sexual assault if they intentionally touch another person, the touching is sexual and the person does not consent.
Sexual assault involves all unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature including (but not restricted to): pinching, embracing, pressing up against someone, groping and kissing. Sexual assault also includes the perpetrator making forcing or manipulating someone else to touch them in a sexual manner. The touching can be under or over clothes and can involve the use of an object to touch skin or clothing.
While sexual assault is commonly used to refer to any form of sexual violence, rape and serious sexual assault is defined slightly differently in legislation and involves penetration without consent. The Sexual Offences Act 2003 sets out the legislation.
Sexual assault is a criminal offence. No one ever deserves or asks for sexual assault to happen. The responsibility always lies with the perpetrator.
You can report an incident of sexual violence and find out how to get support via Report and Support.
For more info, see these FAQs:
What is sexual violence?
What is sexual harassment?
I have experienced sexual violence. Where can I go for advice and support?
