Every day, life moves on and we are bystanders to it. But when someone is in danger we have to make a decision, become active and step in or say nothing and let it go.
To be active and help prevent something, we must first recognise the dangers that we face in doing so as intervening safely is the most important thing. Safely intervening could be something as little as a disapproving stare or not laughing at a sexist joke, it might also involved interrupting or distracting something…
but before getting involved, think ABC:
- Assess safety: If you see someone in trouble, ask yourself if you can help safely in any way. Remember, your personal safety is a priority – never put yourself at risk.
- Be in a group: It’s safer to call out behaviour or intervene in a group. If this is not an option, report it to others who can act.
- Care for the victim: Talk to the person who you think may need help. Ask them if they are okay.
There are also 4 Ds to think of when it comes to intervention:
- Direct action
To call out negative behaviour by telling a person to stop or asking a victim if they are okay. This is best done in a group, but always remain polite so not to aggravate the situation. Stay calm and say clearly why something has offended you, without exaggerating. - Distract
Interrupting is the simplest method as starting a conversation with the perpetrator allow their potential target to move away. Another method is inviting a scenario to remove the victim from the situation such as telling them they need to take a call, or that you need to speak to them. - Delegate
If feeling too embarrassed or shy to speak out or too unsafe to do so, ask someone else to step in. If at a venue, ask staff to intervene as most places will have a zero tolerance policy on harassment. - Delay
If the situation is too dangerous to challenge then and there such threats of violence or being outnumbered just walk away. Wait for the situation to pass then ask the victim later if they are okay. Report when it’s safe to do so as it’s never too late to act.
The best way to start is by talking to friends about their behaviour in a non-confrontational and caring for friends who experience problematic behaviour.
With this is mind, it’s worth remembering that the few moments of awkwardness that stepping in might involve, could prevent a person from having an experience that will change their life forever.
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CHANGE THE CULTURE 