The Faculty of Health’s Active Bystander Training programme has grown from discussions at the faculty’s Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Committee (FEDIC), a group that drives and supports staff and student EDI projects and activities across all six schools.
Following a review of reports such as culture surveys, Speak Up data and placement feedback, we became aware that some students and staff have witnessed or experienced discriminatory behaviour, and sought support and practical training to address this.
Creating a faculty-specific Active Bystander Training programme emerged as one response. It aims to equip individuals with the skills and mindset to intervene in situations where harm or discrimination may occur. It seeks to promote a culture of shared responsibility where everyone is empowered and understands their role in creating a safe and inclusive environment.
Between February and March 2025, 15 staff members across the Faculty of Health completed a programme in delivering Active Bystander Training with an external facilitator. They learned the theory behind the model, and worked to adapt it to the potential environments or situations staff and students within the Faculty may encounter.
As well as providing a general overview of the Active Bystander model, members of the training team will also be able to facilitate sessions focused upon a specific theme and aim to deliver training within staff and student inductions, Discovery Weeks and pre-placement activity via 90-minute sessions.
