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What constitutes a sexual assault? 

Heidi Stewart Heidi Stewart
2 min read

We all have an idea of what counts as a sexual assault, but sometimes it’s not clear. The dictionary definition is someone touching you in a sexual way, without consent.

According to Rape Crisis any form of sexual activity done without your consent is sexual assault. As the person involved it is up to you if you feel the activity was “sexual” in any way. This can include touching over and under clothing, or even stroking your neck if you feel there was a sexual intent behind it.

The legal definition of sexual assault is set out in the Sexual Offences Act 2003. The Act states that a range of crimes can be considered as sexual offences. These include rape, assault by penetration and sexual assault, as well as child abuse, sexual exploitation, and pornography.

If you are not sure but have experienced something that you did not consent to which made you feel uncomfortable seek help. You can report it to the police, seek legal advice, talk to your doctor, or a specialist sexual violence support service. The NHS have information about sexual assault referral centres online Help after rape and sexual assault - NHS.

You know if you gave consent or not. There is also a consideration for situations when a person is not capable of giving consent; asleep, or intoxicated, a young child, or an adult with mental health difficulties.

Once you have reported the crime to the police you can consider making a Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme claim. Winston Solicitors offer specialist legal advice and can deal with your claim for you on a no win, no fee basis.

We are specialist sexual assault and rape solicitors, working to help you get compensation for rape as a victim. We also have a rape victim compensation calculator. So if you would like to explore criminal injuries compensation for rape victims please do get in touch.

If you would like further information call the team on 0113 320 5000 or email @email

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I am incredibly grateful to Winston Solicitors, and especially to Stacey Flegg and Keertan Gill, for their exceptional support in helping me receive my CICA compensation. From start to finish, they handled my claim with professionalism, empathy, and a deep understanding of the delicate nature of my situation.Both Stacey and Keertan were kind, approachable, and extremely knowledgeable. They kept me informed throughout the process and made what felt like an overwhelming journey so much more manageable.I truly appreciate all their hard work and dedication, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Winston Solicitors to anyone seeking legal support—especially in sensitive and complex matters.Thank you, Stacey and Keertan, for your outstanding service and for making such a positive difference.
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For anyone who has doubts to start the process of compensation through CICA being represented by Winston Solicitors is can categorically say its worth it.Stacey was excellent from day one and very reassuring. Any questions, doubts i had she put them all rest. The process was long due to one reason or another from mainly my side. I highly recommend this Solicitors .
Anonymous
I have been supported throughout my claim very professionally and was always updated by Stacey Flagg, very pleased I chose Winston’s Solicitors to act on my behalf
Craig
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