Safer BCP Partnership

Problematic attitudes and behaviours, including sexist humour, foster an environment in which the mistreatment of women and girls becomes normalised. Such an atmosphere can reinforce the beliefs of individuals who may later engage in violent acts. You can effect change by advocating for women, identifying harmful behaviours, and reporting those who inflict harm.

Misogyny includes the following behaviours:

• Objectifying women and girls
• Using sexist nicknames or derogatory remarks to belittle women and girls
• Seeking to control the behaviour of women and girls
• Discriminating against women and girls
• Treating women and girls differently from men in social and professional settings
• Using threatening, intimidating, aggressive or violent behaviour against women and girls   
• Pursuing unwanted sexual comments or advances, including catcalling, stalking, staring, touching, taking pictures without consent, exposure to sexual assault and rape 

Behavioural science suggests that individuals are more inclined to listen to the advice of their friends - those they know, trust and can relate to. This is why its so important for men to act when a peer exhibits inappropriate behaviour towards women and girls.

 When calling out these behaviours, it’s important to ensure you approach with caution to ensure the safety of all involved. If you believe that you will be putting yourself in danger by calling out a situation, then don’t. There are alternative methods to express your disapproval of these behaviours.

• Use a familiar and friendly word to interrupt, say mate, just don’t
• Don’t feel pressured to laugh at sexist jokes or join in with ‘banter’
• If you don’t feel you can be direct, you could try changing the subject, ending the conversation or even walking away
• Respond with curiosity e.g. ‘why do you think that?’ or ‘what do you mean by that?’
• If in a group, find an excuse to chat with them more privately 

It may be uncomfortable to address a friend or family member regarding their behaviour. Nevertheless, taking action is crucial for fostering positive change. Request a private conversation and articulate your feelings about their behaviour and its effects on others. Ensure that the discussion remains composed and respectful.  

Advice and information sourced from The Intervention Initiative.

Only take action if you believe it is safe to do so. Prior to intervening, it may be beneficial to utilize the ABC approach.

Assess for safety: If you observe someone in distress, consider whether you can assist without compromising your own safety. Your well-being should always come first; do not place yourself in danger.

Be in a group: It is generally safer to address inappropriate behaviour or intervene when in a group setting. If this is not feasible, inform others who are in a position to take action.

Care for the victim: Engage with the individual you suspect may require assistance. Inquire about their well-being.

Advice and information sourced from Public Health England.

When it comes to intervening safely, remember the five D’s- direct, distract, delegate, delay and document

Direct action: Address negative behaviour directly by asking the individual to cease their actions or inquiring if the victim is alright. It is advisable to do this collectively, if possible. Maintain politeness and avoid escalating the situation; remain composed while explaining why the behaviour is unacceptable. Focus solely on the events that have transpired without embellishing the details.

Distract: Intervene by initiating a conversation with the aggressor, allowing the potential victim to escape or enabling friends to step in. Alternatively, devise a reason to remove the victim from the situation, such as suggesting they need to take a phone call or that you need to speak with them; any rationale that facilitates their safe departure. You may also attempt to divert attention or redirect the circumstances.

Delegate: If you feel unable to intervene or do not feel secure doing so, seek assistance from someone else. Look for staff members, security personnel, law enforcement, or other groups who can provide support.

Delay: If the situation poses a significant danger, such as the threat of violence or being outnumbered, withdraw and seek help from others or contact the police. Once it is safe, check on the victim's well-being.

Document: Recording a video or audio of the incident on your phone can be beneficial, but only if it is safe to do so.

Advice and information sourced from The 5Ds of Bystander Intervention - Right To Be.