Unwanted touching

Unwanted touching is any deliberate physical contact that happens without someone’s consent. When this touch is sexual, this is sexual assault.

It can happen anywhere: on public transport, in bars and clubs, at work, at school, in the street or in someone’s home. Some people try to dismiss it as a joke, a misunderstanding or ‘just messing about’, but it’s a form of sexual abuse, it’s a criminal offence and it’s always unacceptable.

Here are some of the most common types of unwanted touching.

Types of unwanted sexual touching

Groping

Intentionally touching someone’s breasts, bottom, thighs or groin through clothes or over clothes, especially in crowds, queues, nightclubs or social settings. This type of touch is sexual assault.

Over-familiar touching

Unwanted hugs, kisses on the cheek, putting arms around someone, stroking hair or sitting too close when the person does not want that level of physical contact.

Touching at work or school

Touching in professional or educational settings that crosses boundaries, such as unnecessary contact, lingering touch or standing too close during conversations.

The impact of unwanted sexual touching

Ask women and girls whether they’ve ever been touched, grabbed or groped without consent, and many will say yes.

Whether unwanted sexual touching happens once or repeatedly, its impact often lasts well beyond the moment of contact.

Unwanted touching can affect every part of a person’s life. Here are some of the ways it can cause harm:
- It can lead to shock, panic, fear, anxiety, hypervigilance or intrusive thoughts.
- People may feel violated, objectified or targeted, even when the contact seems brief.
- They may avoid certain places, people or situations because they no longer feel safe.
- It can undermine someone’s confidence, sense of control and comfort in public spaces.
- People may change routines, ask someone to accompany them or avoid travelling alone.
- In workplaces or schools, it can create stress, shame, distraction and performance issues.
If you’ve experienced unwanted touching, you don’t have to face it alone. Support is available whenever you’re ready.
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Unwanted touching has serious consequences.
Some people who touch others without consent don’t see themselves as doing something harmful. They may excuse it as flirting, a misunderstanding or ‘just banter’. But the harm is real and the consequences can include:
- Criminal charges, including sexual assault.
- Damaging trust, relationships and reputations.
- Being removed or banned from workplaces, schools, clubs or venues.
- Facing complaints, disciplinary action or safeguarding measures.
- Long-term impacts on employment, education and future opportunities.
If you’re worried about your behaviour, it’s not too late to change. Support is available to help you understand your actions and learn how to stop.
How to change your behaviour

Need support?

If you’ve been affected by any of these behaviours, you don’t have to deal with it on your own. Reaching out for support can make a real difference.

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Is it crossing the line?

We all think we know when something’s gone too far. But spotting the line isn’t always that easy. Some behaviours can seem harmless until you look closer.
See what crossing the line looks like, and how to change it.

Is it crossing the line?

You can help stop abuse

When abuse goes unchallenged, it can escalate. We all have a role to play in stopping violence against women and girls. Find out how you can help stop it.

Help stop abuse