A new virtual reality drama titled The Afters has been developed to educate young people about the nuances of sexual consent. Created by Lucy Baxter, a lecturer in Film Practice at Queen’s University Belfast, the immersive experience features interrelated narratives told from the perspectives of two 17-year-olds, a girl and a boy. This innovative approach primarily targets students in schools, colleges, and universities, encouraging discussions around consent.
The narratives aim to illuminate the complexities of both verbal and non-verbal communication regarding consent. Baxter expressed her motivation for this project, noting significant gaps in sex education delivery in Northern Ireland. She emphasized the importance of fostering empathy and awareness, stating, “We’re really proud of these films, having worked with young people to ensure their authenticity and relatability.”
Baxter highlighted the necessity of including male perspectives in discussions around consent. As a mother of an 11-year-old boy, she recognized that educational materials often overlook the male viewpoint. “I was really keen to make something that looked at the male perspective as well as the female one,” she explained.
Exploring the Narrative
The storyline unfolds during a house party, where characters navigate social interactions, alcohol consumption, and escalating intimacy. Baxter described the plot as straightforward: “You start getting ready for the house party, interacting with friends, having a drink, and then go to the house party with about five other friends.” The narrative culminates in a moment of uncertainty regarding consent, highlighting how miscommunication and peer pressure can cloud judgment.
Creative director Gavin Peden praised the project for its ability to blend filmic storytelling with the immersive nature of virtual reality. “We are delighted that with The Afters we were able to use the possibilities of filmic storytelling, alongside the personal immersive experience of VR to create a piece that provokes conversation around such a timely and pressing topic,” he said.
Research and Community Engagement
Currently, the project is conducting a research trial in collaboration with Politics in Action, the Phoenix Education Centre, and various schools across Northern Ireland. This initiative aims to engage students and frontline education workers in meaningful discussions about consent.
Dr Therese Cullen, project manager at Politics in Action, emphasized the impact of virtual reality as a tool for learning. “When young people step into these immersive stories, they don’t just hear about consent — they feel it. It’s an incredible tool for opening up honest conversations, helping young people see the power of communication, respect, and body language,” she noted.
The conversations initiated by this project are vital, as young people should be at the forefront of discussions that shape their understanding of consent and relationships. By leveraging technology and storytelling, The Afters aspires to create a safer environment for young individuals navigating intimate situations in the future.
