Exe-Change the Norm
Exe-Change the Norm: Bystander Intervention Programme
The University of Exeter’s Exe-Change the Norm bystander intervention programme is designed to foster a community-driven approach to addressing all forms of discrimination. Developed in collaboration with leading academics, this training equips participants with practical strategies to challenge harmful or inappropriate behaviours effectively.
Student Training
Open to students across all campuses, this bystander intervention training consists of a single, in-person two-hour session, supported by additional resources. The workshop explores how to be an effective and active bystander in various settings, with a particular focus on responding to harassment, sexual misconduct, and racism.
Staff Training
The staff training session, also two hours long, delves into more nuanced workplace behaviours, including microaggressions and power dynamics. It encourages staff to embody and uphold the University’s core values of respect, inclusion, and community. The session also highlights the role of allyship and the use of microaffirmations to foster an inclusive environment.
Why Attend?
Both the student and staff sessions provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging space to explore these critical topics. The programme adopts a person-centred approach that emphasises skill-building through positive framing. Content is carefully tailored, with language, examples, and contextual scenarios designed to resonate with participants.
By taking part in Exe-Change the Norm, attendees gain valuable insights into the importance of bystander intervention and develop the confidence to address harmful behaviours. This training is an excellent opportunity to ask questions, engage in meaningful discussions, and contribute to a more inclusive and respectful university community.
What does the session cover?
- Defining what is, and who can be an active bystander
- Identifying the four psychological stages to intervention
- Recognise the different ways we can intervene. With perpetrators, with victims or engaging allies
- Identifying strategies and approaches for safe and effective early intervention
- Positively contribute to situations
- Identify and practise intervention and supporting techniques
How can I book on to the training?
As a student you can book on all sessions via Handshake by searching for ‘bystander training’ in the event search bar. You can also ask the Guild, SU and the AU to run training sessions for your club or society. If you would like to know when the next session is then please email bystander@exeter.ac.uk
As a staff member you can visit Trent to see when the next session is and sign up. If you are looking to run a team or department wide training then please email bystander@exeter.ac.uk or peopledevelopment@exeter.ac.uk
What does the student Bystander programme count towards?
Apart from the all-important new skills, knowledge and behaviours – The Bystander programme can count towards the Exeter award. One of the Bystander sessions can be used as the personal development session for these awards.
If you have any questions, email us at bystander@exeter.ac.uk
As a student, if you would like to know more about staying safe then please visit this web page - Stay safe | Current students | University of Exeter
If you are a student who has been affected by any form of sexual misconduct, harassment or abuse, we are here to support you. Find out more on our Sexual Misconduct page - Sexual misconduct | Sexual misconduct | University of Exeter
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are a student, please click HERE
If you are a member of staff, please click HERE
Sexual assault
Coffee shop
A group of males are in coffee shop, leering over a girl. They are competing with each other on who will be the first to inappropriately grope her.
Sexual violence
Exam chat
Group of friends texting after exam, someone uses the phrase “totally raped me” to describe the exam.
Racism
Labs social
A group of students are texting about a social event, someone excludes another student because they don’t drink and comments ‘they can’t understand them anyway’
Racism
Where are you from?
Group of people doing introductions, when someone replies to the question “where are you from?” they are met with the follow up question, “but where are you really from?”