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Sexual assault & rape

NTSU has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of sexual violence. We promote freely given consent in all sexual activity.

What constitutes sexual violence?

We define sexual violence as any sexual act occurring without the consent of all parties, including but not limited to; sexual assault, rape, sexual harassment and stalking

People of all gender identities and sexual orientations can be victims of sexual assault, and perpetrators are not just strangers – they can be friends, family members or partners.

What does it look like?

If someone intentionally grabs or touches you in a sexual way that you do not like, or you’re forced to kiss someone or do something else sexual against your will, this is classed as sexual assault. This includes sexual touching of any part of someone’s body, and it makes no difference whether you are clothed or not.

If you are forced to have penetrative sex with someone (either vaginally, anally, or orally), or someone has sex with you without your consent or agreement, this is rape.

The NHS Website has very clear information about what sexual assault is, and where to get help.

There is a help sheet available from NTU Sexual-Violence Support, which provides more information about the effects of rape and sexual assault.

We work closely with NTU to prevent, respond to, and support all students who have experienced this type of harmful behaviour.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can include:

  • someone making sexually degrading comments or gestures
  • your body being stared or leered at
  • being subjected to sexual jokes or propositions
  • e-mails or text messages with sexual content
  • physical behaviour, including unwelcome sexual advances and touching
  • someone displaying sexually explicit pictures in your space or a shared space, like at work
  • offers of rewards in return for sexual favours

If you believe that the behaviour you experienced is a form of misogyny then you can report it as a hate crime.

Report and Support

If you would like to report an incident to the police or need support for something that has happened to you, we are here to support you, whatever your choices are.

Here are some resources that provide information on how to either report an incident or get support:

If you know someone who has been raped or sexually assaulted:

The NHS offers advice on how to support a victim of sexual assault. It includes things such as not judging or blaming them, listening, and offering practical support. Here's a summary of their advice: 

  • Don’t judge them, don’t blame them. A sexual assault is never the fault of the person who is abused.
  • Listen to the person, but don’t ask for details of the assault. Don’t ask them why they didn’t stop it. This can make them feel as though you blame them.
  • Offer practical support, such as going with them to appointments.
  • Respect their decisions– for example, whether they want to report the assault to the police.
  • Bear in mind they might not want to be touched. Even a hug might upset them, so ask first. If you’re in a sexual relationship with them, be aware that sex might be frightening, and don’t put pressure on them to have sex.
  • Don’t tell them to forget about the assault. It will take time for them to deal with their feelings and emotions. You can help by listening and being patient.