Why is Bystander Intervention and Consent Training in Universities Essential?

Consent is the cornerstone of any respectful relationship, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood concepts among young people today. The Office for Students (OfS) advocate for comprehensive consent training in universities, covering topics such as sexually harassing behaviours and bystander intervention, rather than just basic definitions.

This is a highly positive development, not only for students who may encounter harassment but also for the entire university community. Tackling these issues directly is essential for fostering an environment where every student feels safe, respected, and empowered to succeed both academically and socially. Here’s why this initiative is so significant.

Understanding Consent and Harassment: More Than a Technicality 

Consent training isn’t just about teaching students to say “yes” or “no” in certain situations. It’s about fostering a deeper understanding of what respectful, consensual interactions look like, and importantly, where the line of harassment begins. Often, sexually harassing behaviours are dismissed as “banter” or brushed off as harmless fun, which only perpetuates the problem. Educating students on what constitutes harassment empowers individuals to recognize, report, and most importantly, avoid perpetuating harmful behaviour. 

It’s a conversation that goes beyond the binary of right or wrong and digs into the grey areas that often lead to problematic interactions. We know that issues like unwanted sexual comments, inappropriate jokes, or pressure for sexual acts can be harmful, even if they don’t always result in physical violence. By ensuring students are educated about these subtler forms of harassment, universities can help reshape how young people think about power, boundaries, and respect. 

The Role of Bystander Intervention: Culture Change in Action 

One of the standout features of the OfS initiative is its emphasis on bystander intervention. Research has consistently shown that perpetrators of sexual harassment and assault are much less likely to engage in harmful behaviours if they feel their peers disapprove or would intervene. In other words, creating a culture where students look out for one another and feel confident stepping in when something doesn’t seem right can be a powerful deterrent. 

A study from the University of Windsor found that men who believed their friends would intervene in situations of sexual harassment were significantly less likely to engage in that behaviour themselves. This demonstrates the critical importance of peer influence. If we can empower bystanders to challenge inappropriate conduct, we reduce the likelihood of it happening in the first place. 

However, intervention can be challenging, especially for young adults who may fear social consequences, confrontation, or not knowing the “right” way to intervene. That’s why training that equips students with the skills to step in safely and effectively is so vital. Whether it’s learning how to redirect a conversation, disrupt harmful behaviour, or support someone who has been targeted, bystander intervention training makes it clear that everyone has a role to play in preventing harassment. 

Prevention Through Cultural Shifts 

The goal of consent and bystander training is, ultimately, to foster long-term cultural change. Universities are melting pots of diverse backgrounds, attitudes, and values, and while this diversity is an asset, it can also lead to misunderstandings and harmful behaviour if not addressed openly. 

By normalising conversations about consent and harassment and encouraging active bystander behaviour, universities can shift campus culture towards one where mutual respect and safety are paramount. The more ingrained these principles become, the less likely individuals will be to engage in harassment—and the more likely those who do will be held accountable, either by formal reporting or peer intervention. 

Conclusion: The Power of a Supportive Community 

The OfS’s push for comprehensive consent training that includes sexually harassing behaviours and bystander intervention is a step in the right direction for creating safer university environments. It’s not just about protecting potential survivors of harassment—it’s about empowering the entire student body to take responsibility for creating a culture where harassment isn’t tolerated. 

The research is clear: when perpetrators know their peers won’t stand for harmful behaviour, they’re less likely to act. By providing students with the tools to recognise and confront these issues, we help build a more respectful, supportive community, which ultimately benefits everyone. University should be a place of growth, learning, and inclusivity—and these initiatives bring us one step closer to that goal. 

To learn more about our training options for universities please visit our Training and Consultancy Page or contact our Training and Partnerships Officer Helen at training@survivorsnetwrk.org.uk.