16 Days of Activism: Bystander Intervention
Attend free Bystander Intervention training across Avon and Somerset
We’ve partnered with Night Time Economy Solutions (NTES) to provide FREE Bystander Intervention training for those who own, manage, or work in a business in Avon and Somerset’s night time economy.
Sign up for virtual or in-person sessions here
What is Bystander Intervention?
Bystander intervention empowers individuals to recognise and safely intervene in situations where there is a risk of intimate partner violence or sexual violence. It promotes a culture of accountability and care, encouraging everyone to take an active role in preventing harm. This approach shifts the narrative: preventing violence is everyone’s responsibility, not just those directly involved.
Bystander intervention focuses on practical skills—identifying red flags, offering support to potential victims, and challenging harmful attitudes or behaviours in everyday settings. Importantly, it prioritises safety first, providing a range of techniques for stepping in without putting yourself at risk.
Bystander intervention training promotes safety first. Intervening can take various forms—directly addressing the situation, seeking help from others, or creating a distraction to defuse tension. The goal is to stop harm before it occurs and to foster an environment where violence is less likely to happen.
The 5 D’s of Bystander Intervention
A useful framework for bystander intervention is the “5 D’s,” offering different ways to intervene safely and effectively:
- Direct:
Address the situation head-on. For example, you might say, “That behaviour isn’t acceptable,” or check in with a potential victim by asking, “Are you okay?” - Distract:
Create a diversion to defuse the situation without confrontation. For instance, you ask for directions or start an unrelated conversation to redirect attention. - Delegate:
Seek help from others. You might ask someone else to contact an authority figure, such as security staff or the police. For example, if you witness harassment in a bar, you could inform the bartender or manager. - Delay:
Delay leaving the situation. Offer support to the victim later by saying, “I saw what happened—are you okay?” or “Do you need any help?” - Document:
Record the incident if it’s safe to do so, ensuring the documentation supports the victim’s account. Always offer the footage to the victim rather than sharing it publicly.
Creating a safer community
Bystander intervention emphasises that we all have a role to play in preventing violence. By understanding these techniques and knowing when and how to use them, we can foster a safer, more supportive environment where harmful behaviours are not ignored but addressed. Together, we can build communities where everyone feels responsible for each other’s wellbeing.