Many people grow up hearing the idea that domestic abuse is something men do to women. This stereotype is common, but it is not true. Domestic abuse can happen in any type of relationship. Anyone can experience it, and anyone can cause it. Domestic abuse is not limited to one gender Domestic abuse is...
It’s a common myth that healthy relationships are always calm and perfect. In reality, every relationship has disagreements. Arguments are normal because people have different thoughts, feelings, and life experiences. What matters is how you handle the argument, not whether you have one. Why arguments happen Arguments can happen because: People have different opinions...
Online dating has become one of the most common ways people meet, whether for friendship, connection, or long‑term relationships. With so much of our social interaction happening through screens, it’s easier than ever to build meaningful connections. But it’s also easier for harmful behaviour, dishonesty, and manipulation to slip through unnoticed. Understanding common red flags...
Consent means everyone involved is able to choose, understand, and agree to what is happening. Consent must be clear, freely given, and informed. Alcohol changes how our brains work. It affects judgement, awareness, memory, and the ability to make safe decisions. Because of this, someone who is drunk cannot give reliable consent. Why alcohol...
For anyone under 18, sharing intimate photos is never safe and never legal. Even if you trust your partner. Even if you care about each other. Even if you meant it to stay private. Creating or sharing an intimate image of anyone under 18 is against the law. What counts as an intimate image...
If you’re reading this, something in your relationship may not feel right. You might feel unsure, confused or torn. You might be wondering if what you’re experiencing “counts” as abuse. You might even feel guilty for asking these questions. These feelings are common. Many people who experience coercive control doubt themselves for a long time....
Yes. You always need consent in a relationship. Being in a relationship does not mean automatic permission. Consent still matters every single time. Consent is about comfort, communication, and choice. It should feel natural, safe, and clear. Consent doesn’t need to be formal Consent isn’t a contract. It isn’t a strict question-and-answer script. You...
Grooming is a serious issue that affects young people around the world. It’s important to understand what grooming is, how to recognise it, and what steps to take if you or someone you know is being groomed. In this guide, we’ll answer key questions about grooming, give real-life examples, and help you stay safe online...
Rejection is something everyone experiences. It can feel disappointing, embarrassing, or upsetting, but it is a normal part of life and relationships. Learning to handle rejection in a healthy way can help you build stronger friendships, better relationships, and more confidence. Everyone has the right to say no Just like you have the right...
It’s natural to develop feelings for a friend. You might feel excited, nervous, or unsure about what to do next. But the most important thing to remember is this: You can’t make someone have feelings for you. You can only be honest, respectful, and open. You can share how you feel If you want...
Consent means everyone involved understands what is happening, wants it to happen, and feels safe and comfortable. Real consent is active, clear, and enthusiastic. If you’re ever unsure, you ask. What enthusiastic consent looks like Enthusiastic consent is when someone is clearly and confidently saying yes. It means they are choosing to take part,...
There is a lot of relationship advice online. Some of it is helpful, honest, and supportive. Some of it is unsafe, controlling, or completely wrong. It can be hard to know what to trust. If you ever feel unsure, it’s important to check with someone you trust. Not all online advice is healthy Some...
Trust is one of the most important parts of any relationship. It helps you feel safe, respected, and confident with each other. Trust takes time, and it grows through experiences, consistency, and healthy communication. Trust is not constant contact Some people think trust means: Checking in all the time Letting each other know where...
Breakups can hurt, even when you know it’s the right decision. You might feel sad, angry, confused, relieved, lonely, or a mix of everything at once. All of these feelings are normal. There is no “right” way to feel after a breakup. There is no set timeline for when you should feel better. Healing is...
Anxiety can affect how you think, feel, and communicate. It can show up in different ways, including worry, overthinking, fear of being left, or needing extra reassurance. Relationships can feel harder when anxiety is involved, but support and clear communication can make things easier for both people. You deserve relationships that feel safe, honest, and...
Jealousy is a normal human emotion. Most people feel it at some point, especially in relationships. It can show up suddenly and feel intense, confusing, or embarrassing. Feeling jealous doesn’t make you a bad partner. It just means you’re human. Jealousy is your emotion, not their fault It’s important to remember: Your feelings are...
Healthy communication helps relationships feel safe, respectful, and connected. It means both people feel heard, understood, and able to share their feelings without fear or pressure. Everyone communicates differently, so learning what works for you and your partner is an important part of a healthy relationship. Know your communication styles People respond to difficult...
You do not have to fix everything on your own. But you can make a real difference by being kind, calm and safe. What abuse can look like Abuse is not just physical violence. It can be: Controlling behaviour Telling them what to wear Checking their phone or messages Not “allowing” them to see friends...
Why Healthy Relationships Matter Relationships can be amazing, bringing joy, support, and companionship into your life. But how do you know if your relationship—whether romantic or a close friendship—is actually healthy? A good relationship should make you feel safe, valued, and respected. If you’re unsure, don’t worry! This guide will help you recognise the green...
Ever felt drained after spending too much time with someone? Or agreed to something you weren’t comfortable with just to avoid conflict? That’s where boundaries come in. Boundaries help you protect your energy, communicate your needs, and build healthier relationships—whether with a partner, a friend, or even family. Setting them doesn’t mean you don’t care...
If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you are not alone. Support is available, whenever it happened, and whatever you choose to do next. What Should I Do First? Get to a safe place if you can. Consider your immediate needs: If you are injured or need urgent help, call 999. Try not to wash,...
Experiencing domestic abuse, sexual assault, or rape can lead to a wide range of emotional, psychological, and physical responses. It’s essential to remember that your reactions are completely normal. The trauma you’ve experienced affects your body and mind in many ways, but with the right support and self-care, healing is possible. This guide is designed...
Relationships should be safe, supportive, and full of respect. However, sometimes what starts as love can turn into something harmful. Abuse isn’t always obvious, and it’s not just physical—there are many ways someone can be controlling or hurtful in a relationship. If you’re between 16 and 24, this is a crucial time to recognise unhealthy...
At First Light, we know that LGBTQ+ people are at higher risk of domestic abuse and sexual violence, and can face unique barriers when reaching out for help. Fear of not being believed, worries about discrimination, or being ‘outed’ without consent can all make it harder to find safe and understanding support. Our services are...
Definitions Sexual Assault: Sexual assault is defined as an act of physical, psychological, or emotional violation in the form of a sexual act, inflicted on someone without their consent. This can include unwanted touching, groping, or any other form of non-consensual sexual activity. Rape: Rape is legally defined as when a person intentionally penetrates another’s vagina, anus,...
Sexual violence, rape, and sexual assault are serious issues that can have profound impacts on individuals and communities. It’s crucial for organisations and businesses to understand the realities of these crimes, dispel common myths, and provide robust support to affected staff members. This guide aims to educate and equip your organisation with the knowledge and...
If an ex is threatening to share an intimate photo of you, it can feel scary, stressful, and overwhelming. You might worry about people seeing it, getting into trouble, or not being believed. You are not alone. You deserve protection. And help is available. You are not the one in trouble If you shared...
It can feel uncomfortable when a friend wants a romantic relationship and you don’t feel the same. You might worry about hurting their feelings or losing the friendship. But you do not have to say yes to something you don’t want. Your boundaries matter. Your comfort matters. You are allowed to say no You...
Consent is not a one-time decision. It is something you can give, pause, or take back at any moment. You are always allowed to change your mind. Consent must be reversible Consent works best when it follows the FRIES idea: freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific. The “reversible” part means: Even if you agreed...
Coercive control is a deliberate pattern of behaviour used to harm, punish or frighten someone. It involves controlling aspects of a person’s life, what they wear, where they go, who they speak to, or how they spend money. It slowly chips away at someone’s confidence and independence until they feel trapped. It often happens gradually...
What is Consent? Consent is simple—it’s about making sure everyone involved actually wants to do something. It’s a clear, enthusiastic, and voluntary “yes” to any activity, whether it’s holding hands, kissing, or sex. But consent isn’t just a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing conversation that should always involve mutual respect and clear communication. What Consent...
Harassment and stalking can be scary, confusing, and difficult to talk about. Both behaviours can make someone feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or watched. What matters most is how the person on the receiving end feels, not the intention behind the behaviour. If something feels too much, too intense, or too intrusive, it’s important to take it...
What is Love Bombing? Have you ever met someone who showers you with attention, compliments, and affection right away? They text you constantly, call you their soulmate within days, and make big promises about your future together? It might feel amazing at first, like a fairytale. But be careful—this could be love bombing. Love bombing...
What is Sexual Coercion? Sexual coercion is when someone uses pressure, alcohol or drugs, or force to engage in sexual activity with you against your will. This includes persistent attempts to have sexual contact after you have refused. What Does It Look Like? Sexual coercion can take many forms, such as: Someone keeps asking...
What is Sexual Harassment? Sexual harassment is when someone carries out unwanted sexual behaviour towards another person that makes them feel upset, scared, offended, or humiliated. It is also when someone carries out this behaviour with the intention of making someone else feel that way. This means that it can still be sexual harassment even...
Sexual violence is a deeply traumatic experience that can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and genders. Despite its widespread impact, it is often surrounded by silence, stigma, and misinformation. Understanding what sexual violence is, how it relates to sexual assault and rape, and where to seek help is essential for supporting survivors and preventing...
Relationships can be amazing, but they can also come with tricky moments. One of the toughest situations is feeling pressured into something you’re not cool with, especially when it comes to sex or intimacy. If that’s ever happened to you, first off—you’re not alone, and second—you have every right to stand your ground. Here’s how...
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