The age of consent is 16
In England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland the age of consent is 16, whatever the gender or sexual orientation of the people involved. Northern Ireland lowered its age from 17 to 16 in 2009.
A child under 13 can never legally consent to sexual activity of any kind, and the law treats any sexual activity with them as a serious offence.
Where the law says 18
It is a crime to pay for, or promise anything in return for, sexual services from anyone under 18, even though they are over the age of consent. Every business listed on AskedFor must confirm that everyone it advertises is 18 or over.
Making, sharing or possessing sexual images of anyone under 18 is illegal, even if they took the image themselves and even if they are 16 or 17. It is also an offence for an adult in a position of trust, such as a teacher, care worker or, in England and Wales, a sports coach or religious leader, to have sexual activity with a 16 or 17-year-old in their care.
Consent itself
Being over the age of consent is not the same as consenting. Consent means freely agreeing, with the capacity to choose. Someone who is very drunk, asleep or pressured cannot consent. Our guide to consent and boundaries explains more.
Getting help
If you are worried about a child or young person, contact the NSPCC helpline or the police. To report sexual images of under-18s online, use the Internet Watch Foundation. If you see anything on AskedFor that worries you, report it to us and we will act at once.
This is a general summary, not legal advice. For the wider picture, read our guide to what is legal in the UK.
Your questions, answered
What is the age of consent in the UK?
16, in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, for everyone regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
Is it legal to pay for sex with a 16 or 17-year-old?
No. Paying for sexual services from anyone under 18 is a criminal offence across the UK.
Is the age of consent different in Scotland?
No. It is 16 in Scotland, as in the rest of the UK.