In a diverse city like London, small acts of support can make a lasting difference. A kind word, a calm interruption or simply standing beside someone experiencing hate or discrimination can transform isolation into solidarity.
With funding from City Bridge Foundation, Neighbourhood Watch Network delivered a programme of free training that equipped Londoners with the confidence and practical skills to respond safely to by active bystanders. The project was adapted from an original youth leadership initiative to meet emerging community needs, demonstrating the flexibility to respond where support was needed most.
The programme delivered 18 in-person workshops across Hackney, Lambeth and Croydon, alongside 20 online sessions, engaging community groups, frontline workers, councillors, survivors, and residents. More than 100,000 Londoners were also reached through wider awareness activity.
The impact was significant. Before attending, only 21% of participants understood the "5Ds" of bystander intervention. After the training, 93% reported a clear understanding, while confidence to intervene safely increased from 28% before the workshops to 93% afterwards.
One participant shared: "Excellent 2 hours spent learning about being an active bystander and learning about the 5Ds has given me confidence."
Interest in the programme continues to grow, with requests from Camden, Islington, Barnet and Ealing. By giving people, the confidence to act safely, the project is helping create stronger, safer and more inclusive communities across London.
If your organisation would like to know more about running bystander training events please get in touch. If you are an individual interested in doing bystander training, Suzy Lamplugh run free online training. Find out more here.
Return to the Active Bystander homepage.