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Respect, trust and choice

Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust and choice. Everyone has the right to set their own boundaries and to have those boundaries respected.

Consent should be clear, freely given and ongoing. You can change your mind at any time, even if you have said yes before.


Quick check

Consent in everyday situations

Read each conversation and decide whether the person can freely give consent. Look for how they communicate, whether they feel under pressure, and whether their boundaries are respected. Consent should be freely given and can change at any time.

Consent is more likely when someone:

  • freely chooses to take part, without pressure
  • communicates a clear, willing yes
  • agrees to the specific activity
  • continues to agree, knowing they can change their mind at any time

Consent is not freely given when someone:

  • says no, seems unsure or uncomfortable, or changes their mind
  • is pressured, threatened, manipulated or worried about the consequences of refusing
  • is asleep, unconscious or too affected by alcohol or drugs to make a free choice
  • has agreed to something different — or agreed on another occasion

Silence, a relationship, or a previous yes does not by itself mean consent. If it isn’t clear, don’t assume.


Worried about yourself or someone else?

If someone has ignored your boundaries, pressured you or made you feel unsafe, it is not your fault. You do not have to work out what to call it before asking for help. We’re here to listen and help you understand your options.


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Chat with Colin, the College’s AI assistant

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