“Hello there! I’m here to provide you with a bit of information on how you, as a bystander, can actively intervene during an instance of SGBV. I would like to remind you that suggestions on this post should not be taken as medical advice, legal advice, therapy, etc. or as a one-size-fits-all approach. Keep in mind that every individual’s journey of experiencing and navigating through stress or trauma is distinctive because you are one of a kind and no person is truly like you! Experiencing abuse in any form is NOT OKAY, but what you are experiencing as a result of abuse is valid. Please know that healing is not a formula and is not for anyone else to define for you. You do you, and you follow all that you need to follow, to help yourself. If you need additional resources or just someone to talk to, feel free to reach out to Imaara Foundation."
(Image source: Film Inquiry)
To be an effective bystander when you intervene, it is important that you are equipped to handle, address and respond to a situation of violence when it happens before you, or, to support a survivor after an incident of violence has happened. To be prepared, here are some key pointers that you can ensure you fulfill:
1) Carry a cell phone that has enough charge in the battery and money to make calls (if it is a prepaid connection).
2) Identify emergency phones in the area you are going to be at. This could be payphones, PCOs or even businesses that you can access phones from.
3) Identify exit routes, directions and location-specific information wherever you are going.
4) Keep loose change accessible.
5) Keep money as cash and your cards on your person in a way that it is accessible for use.
6) Identify the nearest police stations, and your own circle of trust that you can call on to help intervene.
7) Carry a noisemaker – either a whistle, a horn or even an app that can help generate a loud noise. If it fails, use your voice.
8) Carry a flashlight, both on your phone and as a separate device with operable and functional batteries.
9) Carry basic first aid in your bag. Make sure to always have spare cloth on your person.
Comments