Why Bystander Intervention? Does it even work?

At the SAFE Bar Network we believe in a safe night out for everyone.

SAFE Bars are investing in creating a fun and comfortable atmosphere by building active bystander skills because it is simple and because it works.

Our conversations focus on three things.

1. Notice When Things Aren’t Right. You don’t have to be an expert on the dynamics of sexual harassment and sexual assault to notice when something isn’t right. Trust your gut.

2. Take Action. For far too long we’ve talked about preventing sexual harassment and sexual assault as if there is only one solution – to put on a cape, be the hero, and confront the person causing the problem. Yes, that works. But there are other options that may work better.

Do Something Yourself. Talk to the person causing the problem, check in with the person being hurt.

Get Others to Help. Get their friends to help, or check-in with the people around you and make it a team effort.

Talk About Something Else. Distract from the problem by asking how things are going, or tell them that someone is looking for them – this is your chance to get creative.

3. Give Support. Get Support. There are going to be times when you take action and it feels good. But there are also going to be times when you take action and it’s a bit more complicated. Talk to someone about what happened and show support when others reach out.

SAFE Training is simple, manageable, and it works – but you don’t have to take our word for it. Check out these real-life, Active Bystander Stories from SAFE Bar trained staff.

Let’s redefine what it means to drink responsibly.

To learn more about joining the SAFE Bar Network contact us, just click here!

If you have a favorite bar, restaurant, or night club encourage them to join the SAFE Bar Network. They can learn more at www.safebarnetwork.org

Check out this UN Active Bystander Video to see different solutions in action.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment or sexual assault our partners can help. Visit www.mocsa.org and www.rainn.org

To learn more about the field of sexual violence response and prevention visit www.preventconnect.org and www.nsvrc.org