It’s time to face it – student safety is in crisis. The statistics are sobering: research has shown that almost two-thirds (62%) of students and graduates at UK universities have experienced sexual violence during their time in Higher Education (HE). This stark reality makes it clear that addressing harassment and violence on campus is not just a matter of compliance – it’s a moral imperative. 

To truly make a difference, universities must prioritise proactive measures that go beyond policy changes. A key initiative with proven effectiveness is active bystander training, a powerful intervention approach to fostering safer and more supportive environments. By equipping students with the skills to intervene in potentially harmful situations, universities can empower their communities to step up, speak out, and support one another to create safer learning environments for everyone.

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The Urgency of Addressing Harassment

Harassment on campus comes in many forms, from overt acts like catcalling and racial abuse to less obvious types of harm such as online harassment. These incidents can happen anywhere – on campus grounds, in student accommodation, or even through social media – and they all contribute to a culture where students may feel unsafe or unsupported. When these behaviours go unchallenged, the impact on student wellbeing can be profound, leading to anxiety and a sense of isolation.

Adding to the challenge is a phenomenon known as the bystander effect. This proven psychological concept suggests that the more people present during an incident, the less likely any one person is to intervene. When everyone assumes someone else will step in, the end result is often that no one does. 

Active bystander training addresses this issue by teaching students how to overcome hesitation and recognise when intervention is needed. It’s not about asking students to be heroes, but about equipping them to step up in safe and effective ways.

Why Active Bystander Training Matters for Students

Active bystander training, when done right, has the power to equip students with practical tools and techniques to step in during critical situations. By learning how to identify different forms of harassment and respond safely, students gain the confidence to take action when it matters most. Whether it’s distracting a harasser, seeking help from campus security, or checking in with a friend after an incident, these skills can empower students to make a real difference in the lives of their friends and peers. 

Moreover, knowing that others are willing to step in when needed can significantly boost student wellbeing. When students feel assured that their community will have their back, it creates a sense of safety and support that extends across all areas of campus life. This, in turn, can help reduce anxiety, build stronger social connections, and contribute to a more positive university experience overall.

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Strategies for Engaging Students in Active Bystander Training

Engaging students in active bystander training requires creative approaches that resonate with their experiences and fit seamlessly into their busy lives. Here are some effective strategies for doing so: 

Promoting the ‘5Ds’ Intervention Model

The ‘5Ds’ model – Distract, Delegate, Direct, Delay, and Document – offers practical and flexible ways for students to intervene safely in potentially harmful situations. Each technique provides a different approach to taking action, allowing students to choose the response that feels most comfortable and appropriate. For example, Distract could involve starting a casual conversation to diffuse tension, while Delegate encourages students to seek assistance from others, like campus security or staff. By equipping students with tools to handle a variety of situations, they become empowered to take meaningful action.

Utilising Digital Learning Tools

In today’s digital world, we need to meet students where they are – on their phones. Delivering active bystander training through digital platforms like online modules or interactive videos can help reach students at scale, offering flexibility and convenience. With bite-sized lessons that fit easily into their schedules, students are more likely to engage with the content and absorb key concepts. These digital tools can also incorporate elements like quizzes, gamified challenges, or discussion boards to keep students actively involved and make sure key messages stick.

Incorporating Real-Life Scenarios

Making training relatable is key to capturing students' attention. Using real-life scenarios in the curriculum helps students connect the training to everyday situations they may encounter on campus. For instance, a scenario might involve addressing inappropriate comments at a social event or responding to online harassment. By discussing these familiar contexts, students can see exactly how the skills they’re learning can be applied in real life, which increases the likelihood of them taking action when needed.

Peer-Led Initiatives and Workshops

Students often look to their peers for guidance and inspiration, making peer learning a powerful way to encourage participation. Training sessions led by student ambassadors or peer educators can create a more relatable learning environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences. These peer-led approaches can foster a sense of community and accountability, with students inspiring one another to become more actively engaged in maintaining a safe campus, reinforcing the idea that creating a safer campus is a shared responsibility.

Conclusion

Active bystander training is vital for creating a safer, more inclusive campus. When students know how to intervene, it empowers them to challenge harmful behaviours and support each other, fostering a stronger community.

Higher Education professionals can drive this change by prioritising training and integrating it into student life. Digital solutions make it easier to engage students at scale, ensuring training is accessible and impactful.

The time to act is now: embrace these strategies to build a culture where safety and respect are everyone’s responsibility.

About GoodCourse

From active bystander training to consent education, institutions trust GoodCourse to provide students and staff with the tools they need to build safer, more inclusive campuses.

Talk to a member of our team today to learn about how other universities are improving student outcomes, student safety, and meeting regulatory requirements.

FAQs

What is active bystander training, and why is it important?

Active bystander training equips students with the skills to safely intervene in harmful situations, such as harassment or bullying. It empowers students to take action and fosters a campus culture where everyone feels responsible for safety and wellbeing.

How can digital learning be effective for delivering active bystander training?

Digital platforms enable flexible, accessible learning that fits students' busy schedules. Tools like micro-learning modules or interactive videos make training more engaging and can reach students at scale.

What impact can active bystander training have on student wellbeing?

Training fosters a sense of safety and support, reducing anxiety and improving mental health outcomes. When students know that their peers will step in if needed, it creates a more reassuring campus atmosphere.