I was a victim. I was only 17 years old when I found myself in an abusive relationship with a 28-year-old man. The substantial age gap created a power imbalance that was too great to overcome and left me vulnerable, trapped and traumatised. 

This is my story, but I am not alone. Many young people, men and women in the UK find themselves in similar situations. Currently, UK law permits sexual relationships between individuals aged 16 and older. This policy does not consider the significant power dynamics that can exist between a young person and a much older individual — dynamics that can lead to manipulation, exploitation, and abuse.

Our legal system must better protect our youth from these situations. It is inappropriate, and often dangerous, for individuals over 25 to engage in sexual relationships with those under 20. That's why we call upon the UK government to establish a new law setting a higher age of consent in these cases.

In Canada, law prevents adults from exploiting those just over the age of consent. This law reflects a critical understanding that growing numbers of young individuals are victims of sex-related crimes driven by age-based power imbalance. Similarly, The Netherlands has implemented a "close-in-age" consent law, providing a more protective and nuanced approach.

Our youth deserve a safe path to adulthood, one free from manipulation and abuse. It's time for the UK government to put into place stronger laws that better protect our young citizens in these sensitive areas.

Please sign this petition and join us in asking for legal reform. It's not just about protecting one victim; it's about safeguarding all young individuals from power imbalances in relationships.

EDIT: I would like to clarify some of the alarming comments i’ve received, which clearly have not read my post. I am not trying to change the age of consent. I am not trying to ban appropriate age gap relationships. I’m simply trying to implement a ‘close-in-age’ law for our YOUTH. Our 16/17 year olds shouldn’t be in relationships with people in their 30s , 40s. That doesn’t mean they can’t be in relationships with each other. Thank you.