Street Safety Performance and Bystander Intervention Programme for Violence Against Women and Girls

This pilot programme addresses Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) through a three-part approach combining performance, training, and public awareness. The programme will commission a theatre group to lead the development and delivery of street-based performances that incorporate the voices of young women and girls through participatory workshops. A specialist trauma-informed team will be engaged throughout delivery to ensure sensitivity and safety. The programme will also deliver Bystander Intervention Training to community members, teaching them how to effectively respond when witnessing inappropriate behaviours and harassment. A communications campaign will amplify the core messages and extend reach to wider audiences. This response is informed by significant evidence of VAWG affecting young people: 182 young women reported concerns about gender-based violence and harassment, 158 identified feeling at risk based on gender, over half of girls aged 13-18 have experienced unwanted sexual comments, and research shows many young women and girls restrict their activities and behaviour during summer to avoid unwanted sexual attention. Suppliers should have experience in theatre production, trauma-informed practice, community engagement, and campaign delivery.