Sexual Harassment

Support for issues raised in Circle North, Episode Six: Unwanted

Worried that a gathering of his close friends round is lacking excitement, Ben doesn’t put up much resistance when a group he sort of knows show up expecting a house party.

As things liven up, some of the newcomers act in harassing and sexually assaulting ways. Faced with a series of uncomfortable situations, the friends band together to stand up against this behaviour and help the partygoers understand how many of the things happening are not acceptable.

Anyone can be a victim of sexual harassment, and anyone can be guilty of harassment if they behave in a sexually inappropriate manner.

Forms of sexual harassment include: 

People who sexually harass or bully others can sometimes be extremely manipulative.

They may try to make you feel as though you are the one in the wrong for rejecting their advances or telling them to stop.

Don’t be fooled; they have no right to make you uncomfortable in such a manner.

Begin by telling the person that what they are doing is inappropriate and that you want them to stop.

Speak to an adult that you trust about what has happened and what should be done to stop it from continuing.

If you are concerned about a friend, knowing when to call out unwanted behaviours could help prevent sexual harassment from happening or escalating further.

The NSPCC have more information on sexual harassment and what you can do available via Childline here.

If you believe someone is going to act in a way to cause immediate harm to yourself or others, call 999.