Have you ever laughed at a joke you thought was inappropriate or cruel? Have you ever been concerned about a friend’s behaviour on a night out but not known how to help? You have been a bystander, and we are all bystanders to human behaviour all the time, but it can be difficult to know how and when to intervene and help your friends and peers.

Evidence suggests that sexual violence and harassment, are frequent experiences for many people across society, particularly university students. We have developed a bystander training programme which aims to provide education and raise awareness of various problematic behaviours and highlights the power of the bystander. We want you as students to be an active part of the solution in stopping and preventing sexual violence and harassment in your student community.

The training session will involve videos, discussion points, and activities. By the end of the training, we hope that you will have developed a better understanding of sexual violence alongside a greater awareness of techniques you can use to challenge inappropriate behaviours and support others affected by such experiences. Due to the content covered we will also ensure that you are provided with signposting to appropriate local and national support services.

Previous feedback on the training

This training was really informative and provided me with non-confrontational ways I can help people.

Very informative and well explained with good accompanying resources.

As someone who wishes to learn more about sexual harassment and how to intervene this was really helpful. I've always thought that the best way was to act aggressive so scare off any threats, but this has been helpful in showing me otherwise.

I was a little scared to do this training, however I am so happy I did as I have a clearer understanding of sexual violence and what a bystander is.

Delegates and Location

The event will take place at York St John University and is open to any YSJ student. The training will take place in DG/119 face to face unless there are any changes to current restrictions.

Any Questions?

If you have any questions, please do contact us at allaboutrespect@yorksj.ac.uk

All About Respect Bystander Training YSJ Students