Active Bystander Guidance for Staff and Students

At the University of Edinburgh, we are committed to maintaining an environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We encourage all staff and students to help uphold these values by acting as active bystanders if confronted with unacceptable behaviour. Below is a simple guide on how to intervene effectively and safely. Further resources and support links are provided at the end.

What Constitutes Unacceptable Behaviour? 

Unacceptable behaviour includes any form of bullying, discrimination, or harassment, as outlined in the Staff and Student Dignity and Respect Policies. 

Remember: You are not expected to resolve the situation alone – seek support if you feel unsafe. 

How Can You Be an Active Bystander? 

Disrupt the Situation: 

  • If safe to do so, intervene by interrupting the behaviour. For example, ask the person responsible to assist with something or invite the person affected away from the situation to de-escalate. 
  • Small actions, such as asking for directions or making casual remarks, can divert or disrupt negative behaviour. 

Speak to the Person Responsible for the Behaviour: 

  • When safe and comfortable, approach the person responsible after the incident. 
  • Use reflective questions to encourage awareness, e.g., “Were you aware of how your words sounded?” or express your own feelings, e.g., “I found that upsetting.”
  • Avoid direct accusations or language that might cause defensiveness, such as labelling or calling out overtly offensive behaviours. For guidance on how to handle such conversations, see the 'Calling In and Calling Out' resources. 

Support the Person who Experienced the Behaviour: 

  • Reach out to acknowledge what happened. Ask if they are okay and listen without assumptions. 
  • Encourage them to seek further support if needed. 

Report the Incident: 

  • If the person affected is unable or unwilling to report, offer to assist - such as accompanying them. 
  • Report the incident through the University’s Report + Support system or contact relevant services (HR Advisory Service via the HR Helpline, Student Advisors). 

 

Things to Remember: 

  • You do not have to confront the person who behaved inappropriately directly to make a difference. Reporting and supporting are equally valuable. 
  • Small comments or actions can stop negative behaviour early. 
  • The University safeguards against retaliation for those who support reporting. 
  • Early intervention helps prevent escalation and future harm. 

Things to Avoid: 

  • Do not laugh along or condone the behaviour. 
  • Avoid silence or inaction - doing nothing might be seen as agreement. 
  • Do not confront aggressively or confront someone threatening or controlling. 
  • Do not participate in or facilitate negative behaviour. 
  • By being an active bystander, you can contribute to a safe and inclusive University community.  

 

Further resources on how to be an active bystander can be accessed below: 

  • Report + Support (can be used by active staff and student bystanders to report unacceptable behaviour) 

 

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