What is it?
Harassment is unwanted behaviour which you find offensive or which makes you feel intimidated or humiliated. It can happen on its own or alongside other forms of discrimination. Harassment is about power and control and it is often a manifestation of societal discrimination like sexism, homophobia, Islamophobia, classism, ableism and racism. No form of harassment is ever okay; everyone should be treated with respect, dignity and empathy.
Unwanted behaviour includes spoken or written words or abuse and physical gestures.
Harassment which happens out on the street limits people’s mobility and access to public spaces.
If you are aware of someone being harassed there are tried and tested ways that you can help…
DIRECT
Speak up and tell the harasser that’s what they’re doing is not ok and ask them to leave the victim alone. Only use Direct as a last resort to prevent violence. Your safety and the victim’s safety comes first.
DISTRACT
Interrupt an incident by asking the time or pretending to be lost.
DELEGATE
Tell someone nearby what’s going on to and ask them if they can do something about it, whether a bus driver, security, a bartender, or the police.
DOCUMENT
Record what is happening but never post footage online or use it without permission.
DELAY Check in with the person being harassed. Acknowledge that what happened wasn’t ok and that it’s definitely not their fault. Show the support they need, that you’d appreciate too, if roles were reversed
Active Bystander training (sexual harassment) https://www.standup-international.com/gb/en/training/landing
In this training we will explain the types of harassment and equip you to respond when you experience these types of crime while out in the community, workplace, or in public places.
