Be an active bystander
If you see someone behaving in an unacceptable way, you might consider intervening. First apply ABC
A Assess the situation for safety. Your safety is paramount – don’t put yourself at risk.
B Be in a group. It is safer to intervene if there is more than one of you. If you are alone, consider stepping away and reporting the incident to others.
C Care for the victim. Ask if they need help or if they are OK.
If it is safe to intervene, then use the five Ds:
Direct Action: Tell the perpetrator to stop and ask the victim if they are OK. Be polite and stay calm. Do not escalate the situation.
Distract: Engage the perpetrator or victim in conversation to disrupt the behaviour and allow the victim to disengage. Devise a distraction like dropping something near them and retrieving it so as to interrupt them.
Delegate: Ask someone else to intervene. Nearby security personnel or venue staff might be able help.
Delay: Walk away if it’s not safe to intervene. If possible monitor situation from distance and ask victim if they are OK once it’s safe to do so.
Document: If it is safe to do, document the incident in case the victim wants to take action later and needs evidence. Don’t put yourself in danger while doing this.