Consent and boundaries

Consent and boundaries do not need to sound like a training video. Often the useful words are simple: slower, not that, I want to stop, can we try this, or not tonight. This collection is for the moments where you know what you want to say but want a way to say it without making it feel bigger than it is.

The questions cover asking someone to slow down, stopping an activity, saying no while still wanting affection, talking about a new practice and setting expectations with a new partner. They focus on concrete language and on making a change of plan possible without pretending that awkwardness never happens.

If someone ignores a boundary, pressures you, prevents you leaving or makes you afraid to say no, prioritise getting somewhere safe and contact a trusted person or local support service. You do not need a perfectly phrased refusal for a boundary to count. If there has been a sexual assault, a healthcare service can also help with immediate care and evidence options.