Equipping men to challenge harassment

Civic is equipping young men in Redbridge with the skills to Step In safely when they see sexist harassment.

Working with behavioural change experts Social Engine, Civic developed the name, brand, core messaging and campaign materials for this borough-wide campaign.

The initiative, which is part of a larger, multi-phase behaviour change programme designed to tackle sexist harassment and violence in the borough, encourages men to become ‘active bystanders’ – people willing to step in when they see a woman being harassed.

Through a series of dgitial screens, social media and training courses, young people are taught that there are three ways to step in safely – distract him, support her and get help.

Research shows that the person giving the message is often as important as the content, so Step In has worked with respected male youth leaders across the borough, who have served as icons for the campaign.