Sex & Consent: Must watch for everyone.

After seeing the video, created by the Youtuber Charlie Mcdonnell (also known among us youths as 'charlieissocoollike') that was uploaded as part of the government 'This is abuse campaign', which has also made it's way onto other media platforms such as TV to raise awareness of lack of consent or controlling behaviour in relationships, I have pretty much determined that everyone should watch this; regardless whether you are male or female or young or old.

Many youtubers are not ones to share such personal information as Charlie bravely did in this video and honestly, I think Charlie has just gone and gained the respect of thousands of people across this world by openly admitting the age he lost his virginity and his ever so correct views on sexual relations as part of the scheme - after all why should he (or anybody) feel ashamed of such a natural thing.

As the years pass by it unfortunately becomes more apparent that young people are feeling more pressure to perform sexual relations, either under the pressure of friends or their partner and the strains of society. This video also brings the refreshing feel that is hearing a person, who has so many easily influenced people admire them, use their platform for exactly the right reason.

Charlie most importantly addressed the issue concerning consent after his friend and fellow Youtuber of several years, Alex Day, admitted to being manipulative and unfaithful as well as rude in his relationships, that were predominantly with fans. Charlie raises awareness of the precautions people should make in their relationships to recognise the signals of their other half saying 'no'. I believe that couples, or ya know, people in general, should be made more aware of how to distinguish the signs of a person saying 'no'; that is not just through the word, but also through body language and more subtle signals. Alex Day himself has taken to Tumblr to apologize to his fans, those who have supported him and most importantly his victims. On his Tumblr, where his apologies and self-recognition of his actions can be found, he has stated  "...the model of consent that I followed, not that I specifically thought about it at the time - was that only “no” meant “no.” That is not what consent is."

Awareness of sexual relationships and consent are issues that are becoming even more vital to inform, particularly young adults, about. The recognition and courageousness of victims speaking out are also, thankfully, increasing, and attention of such issues from significant figures that are now widely known on growing platforms, such as Youtube, are exactly what is needed to help aid and give confidence to people who may be in abusive, controlling or manipulative relationships.