We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, or harassment
We do not tolerate sexual misconduct or relationship abuse or violence
We keep our campus and community safe
"We" means all of us - students and staff alike
- The University's Dignity Principles
Our Dignity Principles remind us that when it comes to keeping our campus and community safe “we” means all of us – but what does that look like in practice?
We all have a part to play in upholding our principles, not only through the way we treat others, but also by recognising and responding to harmful behaviours around us which undermine the dignity, safety and inclusion of others.
Knowing when and how to intervene isn't always straightforward; we might be uncertain about what we're witnessing, worry about making a situation worse, or simply not know what to say or do. Our Active Bystander course helps bridge that gap, supporting staff to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to recognise harmful behaviours, respond safely and effectively, and play an active role in creating a respectful, inclusive community rooted in our University Values.
The course consists of two 2-hour sessions (including a 10 minute break). The sessions are delivered as interactive in-person workshops on central campus, facilitated by a member of the University's Conduct & Resolution team.
Session 1:
Thursday 14th January, 11am - 1pm, OR
Tuesday 19th January, 2 - 4pm
Session 2:
Thursday 21st January, 11am - 1pm, OR
Tuesday 26th January, 2 - 4pm
There is no pre-reading or set assignments; the course requires a total of 4 hours commitment.
Groups will include a maximum of 20 staff.
The course is suitable for all staff with an interest in recognising and responding to harmful behaviours around us which undermine the dignity, safety and inclusion of others.
You do not need any prior knowledge of active bystander strategies. However, please ensure that you have completed the University's mandatory staff training Moodle,'Warwick Principles and Social Inclusion' as this provides an introduction to the behaviours discussed within the course.
What it means to be an active (or 'prosocial') bystander.
The theory and evidence behind active bystander intervention as an effective strategy for reducing harmful behaviours in our communities.
Recognition (and barriers to recognition) of harmful behaviours such as bullying, harassment, discrimination, sexual misconduct and relationship abuse.
The psychological and social factors that affect bystanders' willingness to act, including social pressures, fear of negative consequences, and the bystander effect.
How myths, stereotypes and misconceptions can normalise harmful behaviour, and how challenging them prevents harmful behaviours.
The 5 'D' intervention strategies (Direct, Distract, Delegate, Document and Delay).
How to select and implement intervention strategies for a broad range of situations.
Assessing the risks associated with (non-)intervention, and how to minimise associated risks.
Developing the language and confidence to challenge harmful behaviour consistently and effectively.
Responding sensitively to disclosures, including listening without judgement, offering appropriate support and signposting to specialist services.
