Helping victims of hate

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On March 13, we celebrate National Bystander Awareness Day - a day that unites people to tackle hate and hostility. We want to raise awareness of ways that you can help people who suffer from hate.

Maybe they’re just joking around, don’t
want to look like I am overreacting...

Did you know that you
are less likely to help
someone in need when
there are other people
around you?

This phenomenon is called the bystander
effect. It's easy to think that 'someone else will surely step in' when others are present.
However, because of that, people in need
often don't get help.

Surely someone already called the police!

Don’t want them to turn on me next...

I am already late for work, someone else
could step in instead...

Watch NBAD 2020 Launch Event

Hate hurts. Listen to the experiences of people living in Nottingham and learn how you can help.

Play

But what can I do?

Intervene.

Bystander interventions

There are many things you can do to help victims of hate. You can either help from the safe distance or get directly involved. Remember, whatever you do makes a real difference. Scroll through to see our indirect and direct intervention models and find what suits you most.

Safety first

Remember that your safety is a priority. Do not confront the perpetrator if they are or might become violent. In case of an emergency, always call 999.

We encourage interventions in day to day situations:
– Occurring in public and workplaces.
– Involving hostility and prejudice rather than violence or crime.
– When you feel confident and safe to do so.

See

Observe the situation. Don't turn away as it gives the message to the offender that their behaviour is acceptable. Pay attention to details so that you have the best information when you report the incident. Make a note of the description of the offender, where you are, and what time it is.

Report

If you don't feel you're the best person to deal with the situation, call security, staff, or other bystanders for help to intervene.Once you're in a safe space, report directly to the police. Remember, in case of an emergency, always call 999

Support

If possible, speak with the victim. Assure them that what just happened was wrong. Ask if they're OK. Ask if they need any help, or would like you to call someone. Let them know about support services available using this guide.

Indirect interventions:

Safe things you can do from a distance when witnessing hate.
Great approach when you don’t feel confident or you’re in a
public place and don’t know the perpetrator.

Scroll left and right and hover over the circles to see your options.

Direct interventions

Things you can do when you feel more confident and it’s safe to do a little extra.
For example when it is in the workplace or you know the perpetrator.

Scroll left and right and hover over the circles to see your options.

Distract

Do something to interrupt the abuse. For example, spill a drink, ask for directions or help, or tell the perpetrator they have dropped something.

Disapprove

Say what you think out loud or speak to others at the scene. You can say 'that's not OK' or 'I think we should do something about it'.

Directly challenge

Address the abuse. Tell the perpetrator their behaviour isn’t right or ask why they are behaving this way.

Learn

Book our training and learn more about the impact of hate crime and safe interventions. You can download a free copy of our digital resources.

Raise Awareness.

Raise yours and others awareness of safe interventions. There are many options to get involved:

For online
heroes:

For outdoor
heroes:

Make a promise. Sign the pledge.

If you want to get involved, why not make it official? Sign our pledge and gain access to our resources and badges for free.