If the police decide there is enough evidence they will charge the offender and the offender will be dealt with through the court system. Forced sexual activity is a criminal offence whether the person who hurts you is someone you know or is a stranger. If you are under 17 it is a criminal offence for a teacher, relative or someone who is looking after you to touch you in a sexual way or have sex with you, even if you agree to it. If you have been the victim of a crime and you wish to apply for compensation you should get legal advice as soon as possible, because time limits apply and you may need to lodge your application immediately. Sexual harassment is any sexual action which makes you feel uncomfortable, offended, humiliated or intimidated.
Sexual harassment can happen to anyone at any age.
Sexual harassment can happen to you at school or work or when you are purchasing goods or services or looking for accommodation. You do not have to put up with sexual harassment. If you think that you have been sexually harassed you can complain to the Anti-Discrimination Board or the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. You could ask a lawyer or someone you trust to help you complain, or you could contact the Board or the Commission yourself. Sexual harassment which occurs in the street is not something that you can complain to the Anti-Discrimination Board or Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission about, as these organisations only deal with sexual harassment which occurs in certain situations, such as at school, work or when you are purchasing goods or services.