The programme is designed to equip students and staff with practical skills to safely challenge unwanted sexual experiences or gender-based violence, harassment, hate crime and harmful behaviours they encounter in Northern Ireland.

The drop‑in event, held on Friday 13 March in One Elmwood, brought together support providers from across the University and the wider community including the PSNI, SOS Bus NI, Belfast City Council, and Victim Support NI. 

Attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the initiative, access support services and sign up for Green Dot training workshops which help participants recognise harmful attitudes and behaviours, and respond safely using the Direct, Distract and Delegate model of intervention.

Speaking of the initiative, Queen’s Pro Vice‑Chancellor for Education and Students, Professor Judy Williams, said:

“Creating a respectful and inclusive environment is a priority for Queen’s and the Green Dot initiative is one of many ways we demonstrate our commitment to ensuring that everyone in our University community feels safe and supported. 

“By giving staff and students the tools to challenge inappropriate behaviour, we are investing in a culture that actively promotes wellbeing and respect, and the strategies learned will have an impact beyond this campus, and well into the futures of those who partake.”

Initially developed by Ulster University, the Green Dot Bystander pilot began at Queen’s in October 2025. Since then, 42 trainers have been recruited 232 participants have undergone Bystander training, learning of the prevalence of unwanted sexual experiences, domestic abuse, harassment and hate crime in Northern Ireland, and ways to challenge victim-blaming behaviour and redefine perceptions.

The initiative forms part of a wider programme offered across Higher and Further Education bodies as part of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy. Participants who complete training workshops receive a green badge to help raise visibility of the initiative on campus.

Róisín Costelloe, Queen’s Students’ Union Officer for Activities and Engagement, added:

“The Green Dot programme is about simple, everyday actions that make a real difference. By learning how to safely step in when we see harmful behaviour, students can help build a culture where respect is the norm. I’m proud to support this initiative and encourage all students to take part in the training.”

Green Dot training workshops will be available throughout the year. The University also plans to partner with selected Schools to embed the training within relevant curriculum areas.

For more information on the Green Dot Bystander Initiative, or to sign up for training, please visit: https://reportandsupport.qub.ac.uk/campaigns/green-dot  

Media

For media enquiries contact alana.fisher@qub.ac.uk