A current question or signal that invites an honest update and allows change.
Back to the glossaryConsent & relationships
Check-in
A brief communication used to confirm comfort, capacity, consent or changing needs before, during or after an interaction.
Consent & relationships
In brief
A pause for information—not a ritual that proves consent.
A check-in creates a moment for information and choice. It can be verbal, visual or tactile where that method is mutually understood and accessible. It supports consent but does not manufacture it when someone lacks capacity or freedom.
A broader discussion of scope, limits, risks, roles and safeguards before participation.
A pre-agreed stop or slow signal, often useful when ordinary language is part of role-play.
A later conversation about wellbeing and learning; it cannot retroactively authorise earlier conduct.
What makes a check-in useful
Questions should be specific enough to answer: whether to continue, change intensity, pause, use water, adjust equipment or stop. A genuine check-in makes every answer acceptable.
Automatic yes-seeking, leading questions or asking in a way that punishes hesitation can turn a check-in into performance rather than choice.
Non-verbal and accessible methods
Adults may agree hand signals, taps, cards, devices or movement-based responses where speech is difficult. The signal must be within the person's present ability to use.
If a signal is absent because someone is unresponsive, confused or physically unable to communicate, stop and assess rather than assuming silence means continue.
Changing conditions
Check again when an activity, person, object, body area, intensity, environment or recording plan changes. Pain, numbness, panic, intoxication and fatigue can also alter needs or capacity.
A positive answer at one check does not cover the remainder of an encounter. Consent stays continuing and withdrawable.
Afterwards
A post-event check can identify injuries, emotional needs or lessons for future planning. Serious symptoms require appropriate medical care rather than reassurance alone.
Aftercare preferences vary and may include space. Nobody must provide affection, reconciliation or a positive review to validate earlier consent.
Non-graphic examples
What the umbrella may include
- Asking whether to continue or change something.
- Using an agreed hand signal when speech is restricted.
- Stopping when the expected response does not come.
- Checking again before adding a new activity.
- Contacting someone later only through the method they requested.
Reviewed 30 August 2026
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