
As this case shows, it does not necessarily matter if the child has reached the age of consent there is a separate offence of engaging in sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust. He was jailed for 16 months and placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years. One example is the case of Mark Westcott, a teacher who was 48 years old when he began a relationship with a 16-year-old pupil. Those charged with sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust often make headline news.

What is sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust? Engaging in sexual activity with someone under the age of 16 is illegal. This means that people under the age of 16 cannot consent to sexual activity, even if they say otherwise. The age of consent is the same regardless of sexuality or gender. The age of consent in the UK is 16, as set out under the Sexual Offences Act 2003. We are available to take your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our criminal defence solicitors can represent you.

If you have been accused of sexual assault, be it with a minor or an adult, please contact us at Ashmans Solicitors. You will then be placed on the sex offenders register. Anyone who engages in sexual activity with someone under the age of 13 has committed statutory rape. Anyone who engages in sexual activity with someone under the age of 16 has committed a criminal offence. This is because in the UK, children under the age of 16 cannot legally consent to sexual activity, even if they express a different opinion. The age of consent is crucial to sexual assault cases.
