Blog | Red Dot Foundation Global

Author: ahana

  • Creating Safer Cities: How the Greater Manchester Police is Using Safecity Data to Help End Gender-Based Violence

    When it comes to gender-based violence (GBV), the places we move through every day—our streets, buses, parks, and campuses—can have a significant impact on our views of safety. And for many students, these public spaces are not always as safe as they should. 

    Led by Red Dot Foundation Global in partnership with Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Victim Services, and Resist Rape Culture at UMSU, this initiative is focused on understanding and addressing gendered violence by combining data, community voices, and institutional change. In this blog, we’ll explore:

    • Why Public Safety is important in conversations about GBV. 
    • How the Safer Cities Project is using community voices to drive change. 
    • Why your experience matters & how you can be part of the solution.

    Why Public Safety Is a Gender Issue
    For many people, the risk of harassment or assault extends outside their homes and workplaces. It’s in ordinary, everyday places they travel through: a dark road after class, a busy bus station, or a walk home from a friend’s. 

    Gender-based violence (GBV) in public places often goes unreported, and when it does get noticed, it’s not always taken seriously. That lack of visibility can leave the person feeling unheard, allowing damaging patterns to continue. That’s why it is not only important to raise awareness about GBV, but also to actively track where it happens, who it affects, and how communities can prevent it from happening in the future.

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    What Is this Initiative About?
    The Safer Cities Project aims to study gender-based violence patterns in Greater Manchester’s public areas, particularly among student communities. Through social audits and anonymous crowdsourced data, we are identifying areas where people feel unsafe and fostering community conversations about trust, access, and protection.

    The key goals?

    • Understand the patterns of harassment, assault, and underreporting.
    • Identify areas where public safety is an issue.
    • Increase transparency and trust between local communities and the police.
    • Use data to support evidence-based policing and community-driven solutions.

    This is more than just mapping crime; it is about promoting change through awareness, accountability, and action.

    What Makes This Approach Different?
    Traditional responses to GBV are often seen after the incident has occurred. However, the safer cities project is taking a different approach, emphasizing prevention, engagement, and collaboration. By involving students, local residents, and institutions in a meaningful way, this approach is helping people actively develop solutions rather than simply reporting harassment.

    It’s also worth mentioning that crowdsourced data—such as polls and community reports—can be extremely powerful. It contributes to a more accurate depiction of the realities that people confront on the ground, beyond official statistics.

    Why Your Voice Matters?
    If you’re a student, a resident, or just passing through Greater Manchester, your experiences count. Whether you’ve felt uncomfortable walking home, been harassed on public transportation, or simply seen an area with insufficient lighting or security, your observations can help protect others.

    Every story shared helps us get closer to:

    • Understanding which spaces require change. 
    • Assisting law enforcement to make better, more informed decisions.
    • Creating cities where everyone, regardless of gender, can feel safe.

    How You Can Help Create Safer Cities?
    We’re all part of this city. And everyone has a role to play in making it safer. Here’s how you can get involved:

    1. Take the Survey: Share your experience to help build a body of facts that can guide real-world action.
    2. Spread the Word: Inform your peers, classmates, and neighbors about the project, especially those who may feel unheard.
    3. Engage with Local Initiatives: Look for student clubs or community events that promote gender equality and safety.

    Also, please take a moment to learn more about our project partners, such as Greater Manchester Police and Victim Services, who are actively trying to bridge the gap between the public and institutions.

    Ready to Make Greater Manchester Safer?
    Real change happens when people come together. Whether you’re sharing your experience or urging others to speak up, your participation is critical to creating a safer, more inclusive community.

    Download the SafecityApp to:

    • Anonymously report incidents
    • Connect with nearby support services
    • Access safety tips and legal resources
    Download on Android
    Download on IOS
  • What Can Men and Boys Do to End GBV?

    What Can Men and Boys Do to End GBV?

    While gender-based violence (GBV) affects people of all genders, the truth is that it often stems from negative, harmful norms. Whether it is through physical aggression or casual control, many of the behaviors we are discussing are taught to children (especially boys) from a young age, encouraging them to ignore or accept whatever is happening. 

    But the good news is that change is possible. And it starts with men and boys taking charge and challenging societal norms. In this blog we’ll break down:

    • How Gender-based violence is fueled by toxic masculinity. 
    • What men can do to be real allies. 
    • Initiatives supporting men in the fight against violence. 

    So, What Is Toxic Masculinity—and Why Does It Matter?

    Let’s be clear: the issue is not masculinity per se. The harmful standards surrounding what it means to “be a man”—such as “boys don’t cry,” “be the boss,” or “never show your weakness”—are known as toxic masculinity. These beliefs have the potential to seriously hurt both the men who hold them and others. Here are some examples of how it manifests:

    • Entitlement: The idea that men ought to have authority over women’s time, bodies, or decisions. That kind of thinking can fuel everything from unwanted comments to domestic violence. 
    • Bottled-up Emotions: A lot of boys learn to suppress their feelings as they grow up. And when feelings like sadness or insecurity are buried, they can come out as anger or aggression later on. 
    • Power Imbalance: In some places, men are expected to lead while women are expected to follow. These dynamics can create relationships where control and even abuse become normalized. 

    Not only does toxic masculinity harm women and marginalized people—it also limits men from challenging it. 

    How Can Men Be Part of the Solution?

    Being an ally isn’t about having all the answers. It all comes down to being honest, taking accountability, and making sure your behavior reflects the kind of world you want to live in. Here’s where to begin:

    1. Call Out: Make sure you don’t let street harassment or sexist jokes slide away, even if they are said by a friend, as it can have a significant impact on someone else. 
    2. Listen to Survivors: When someone shares their experience, your job isn’t to question it—it’s to listen. That alone is powerful, and sometimes more than enough. 
    3. Talk to Other Men: Honest discussions with friends, brothers, and colleagues are where real talk begins. This shows how different opinions form and what can be changed to make it better. 
    4. Encourage Women-led Movements: Supporting individuals who are directly impacted is another aspect of being an ally. It entails supporting their causes, elevating their voices, and standing by them. 

    Every action matters—from having a conversation to just making a better choice in the moment. Everything adds up. 

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    Initiatives That Help Men Make a Difference

    Across the world, an increasing number of programs are helping men step into their role as change-makers when it comes to fighting and eradicating GBV. Workshops and initiatives at school ensure that these sessions educate young men about consent, gender equality, and healthy relationships before their actions become habits. 

    Likewise, digital resources can come in handy when dealing with such situations. From videos to conversation guides, there’s a growing collection of tools designed specifically to help men get more involved in meaningful ways. Apps like Safecity also allows their users to get access to resources for support and find information on how to be an active ally. 

    FAQ

    Can men be survivors of GBV too?

    Yes—GBV can affect anyone, regardless of gender. Every survivor deserves to be heard and supported.

    Does it really make a difference to call out a friend?

    It does. Peer influence is powerful. One voice can spark change in someone else’s mindset or behavior.

    Do I need to be an expert to get involved?

    Not at all. Just being willing to learn, listen, and grow is enough to make a difference.

    Ready to Take That First Step?

    Ending Gender-based violence means building a more respectful, fair, and compassionate world. A world where one doesn’t get discriminated against because of their gender or sexuality and a place where men and boys play a vital part in combating violence. 

    Download the SafecityApp to:

    • Anonymously report GBV in your area.
    • Access resources for allies.
    • Support women is their drive for change. 
    Download on Android
    Download on IOS
  • Gender-Based Violence and Children: Preventing Harm from a Young Age

    Gender-Based Violence and Children: Preventing Harm from a Young Age

    Gender-based violence (GBV) not only affects adults—it can affect children too, leaving long-lasting emotional, psychological, and developmental scars. The impacts can often last for years, if not a lifetime, regardless of whether they witness or experience abuse at home. Unfortunately, these impacts go unnoticed, especially when kids are too young to express or communicate what they’re feeling. It is absolutely important to prevent any harm they might be exposed to, and this blog will aim to:

    • Recognize how GBV affects children—both directly and indirectly. 
    • Learn how to discuss body safety and healthy boundaries with children. 
    • Explore resources and support networks that can help protect children from harm.

    How Does GBV Affect a Child?
    Children can be impacted by gender-based violence in a number of ways. While some are direct victims, others are witnesses to abuse happening at home. The constant exposure to yelling, threats, or physical aggression between adults creates an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. These children might develop anxiety, sleep disturbances, or behavioral issues, both at home and at school. 

    GBV also includes the horrific form of child sexual abuse. This type of abuse severely compromises a kid’s sense of safety and body autonomy as it is often committed by someone the child knows and trusts. Later in life, the child may struggle to build healthy relationships and feel guilty, ashamed, or fear speaking up. In both cases, this can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), such as:

    • Depression and Low Self-Esteem. 
    • Trust and Attachment Issues.
    • Poor Academic Performance and Difficulty Concentrating.

    Early experiences of trauma can also affect how the brain develops, making it more difficult for the child to control their emotions or feel in charge of their life.  

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    Talking to Children About GBV and Body Safety
    The best way to prevent GBV affecting a child is to talk to them in the early stages (and often) in ways that are appropriate for their age. Even though it can be awkward, open communication teaches them respect, boundaries, and what to do when something feels off. Here are a few efficient ways to get started:

    1. Use Words Suitable for Their Age: Start by educating a child by outlining proper names for body parts and explaining which parts are private. Avoid using ambiguous language as if something goes wrong, they should know how to express themselves clearly. 
    2. Establish Body Safety Rules: A child should be taught about what “bad touch” means from a young age, and that they can say “no” at any time if they feel uncomfortable around any adult.
    3. Talk About Consent and Respect: As a child grows older, conversations can start to expand to include topics like knowing personal boundaries and what consent means.
    4. Create a Safe Environment: Let the child know that they can come to you with any concern without the fear of being blamed or punished. Your reaction can set the tone for how safe they feel opening up to you. 

    What Protective Services Are Available for Children?

    If a child is at risk or has already experienced GBV, protection and support are crucial. Fortunately, there are a lot of systems that are available for immediate help and assistance. The first point of contact is usually the child helplines. They operate around the clock and provide emergency support and counseling whenever needed. Child Welfare Committees (CWC) are legal bodies that investigate child protection cases and ensure that the child’s safety and rights are prioritized and that the offender faces the proper legal consequences. 

    Other resources that are available: 

    • NGOs or Government run child shelters.
    • Legal aid clicks for minors and their guardians. 
    • Local Committees for child protection. 

    Digital apps like Safecity can also help adults anonymously report harmful surroundings, including those that affect children.

    FAQ

    How can I tell if a child is being affected by GBV?

    Watch for sudden changes in behavior, such as aggression, withdrawal, nightmares, or a drop in academic performance. These may be signs of stress or trauma.

    What if the child is too young to explain what’s happening?

    Children may use games, artwork, or behavior to convey their distress. A trained counselor or child psychologist can help interpret these signs and offer support.

    Take the First Step to Protect a Child

    Children deserve to feel safe—in their homes, schools, and communities around them. However, they can’t protect themselves without the help and support of caring adults. Regardless of your role—parent, educator, or neighbor—your awareness and action can have a long-lasting impact. 

    Download the SafecityApp to:

    • Anonymously report unsafe environments.
    • Access child safety resources and legal support.
    • Connect with local child protection services.
    Download on Android
    Download on IOS


  • The Psychological Impact of GBV on Survivors

    The Psychological Impact of GBV on Survivors

    “Gender-based violence doesn’t always leave visible bruises, but it always leaves deep emotional scars.” 

    Long after the physical wounds have healed, survivors often carry the mental and emotional burden of their trauma. These invisible scars—fear, anxiety, depression, and shame—are deeply personal and tend to be misinterpreted or overlooked. The emotional scars that survivors bear may not heal for months, years, or in some cases, even a lifetime. Their mental health, self-worth, and general sense of security are all impacted by the abuse imposed on them. 

    The effects of gender-based violence (GBV) don’t stop when the abuse ends.

    Yet for many survivors, the stigma and silence that follow are just as painful as the violence itself. Without the right support, emotional healing may seem unattainable. Which is why, in this blog, we’ll help you:

    • Recognize the impact GBV has on a survivor’s mental health.
    • Find out why many survivors choose to remain silent or delay reporting. 
    • Discover available support networks for emotional recovery and healing. 

    No one should have to carry their trauma alone. Let’s end the taboo around the effects of GBV on mental health and start the conversation.

    What Happens to a Survivor After GBV?
    Depending on the type of abuse, the support that follows, and their overall mental health, survivors may have a wide range of psychological reactions. Post-traumatic stress Disorder (PTSD) is among the most prevalent conditions experienced by many. Flashbacks, nightmares, or intense emotional responses to particular noises, smells, or locations are common symptoms of an actual traumatic condition. 

    On the other hand, anxiety often becomes part of their daily life—the constant fear and stress might lead to experiencing constant panic attacks. Another common consequence is depression. For some, even getting out of bed seems like a hustle or a challenge. Perhaps the most heartbreaking is the feeling of shame that follows through. Survivors tend to fall under the act of blaming themselves for the abuse, questioning their own worth, or wondering if they somehow caused it. This internalized guilt might make it difficult to trust others or even themselves again. 

    Why Many Survivors Don’t Speak Up
    “Why don’t they report it?” is an easy question to ask. But fear, trauma, and a lack of support can all be the main causes of silence. In other words:

    1. Fear of Retaliation: Many survivors worry that if they come forward, the abuser will threaten them or would lead to more violence. 
    2. Social Stigma: Often, if not always, discussing abuse is viewed as disgraceful to many. Survivors may fear being judged, criticized, or even cast out by their close ones.
    3. Lack of Trust in Authorities: Survivors may believe that reporting won’t help—or even worse—after having bad experiences in the past or learning about how others were rejected or re-traumatized. 
    4. Emotional Exhaustion: When someone is already struggling with trauma, the thought of repeating their story or navigating legal procedures can be overwhelming. 

    The silence doesn’t mean the violence wasn’t real. It means the world didn’t feel secure enough to disclose. 

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    How Can Survivors Begin to Heal?
    With the right care and support, it is possible to recover from the psychological impacts of GBV, even if recovery is never linear. In this process, therapy can play a vital role. Trauma-informed therapists are trained to offer survivors unconditional care, assisting them in processing traumatic experiences and creating constructive coping mechanisms. Additionally, a sense of community is provided to survivors through support groups, making them less lonely and more empowered. 

    Likewise, helplines and crisis services provide immediate, private assistance whenever needed. Talking to a qualified counselor can make survivors feel less alone, heard, and validated. 

    FAQ

    Is it normal to feel guilty after experiencing GBV?

    Yes, unfortunately, it is common—but completely undeserved. Abuse is never the victim’s fault.

    How can I help someone going through this?

    Listen without judgment. Encourage them to seek professional help. Share resources like helplines or the Safecity App. Most importantly, believe them.

    Take the First Step Towards Emotional Recovery

    The first step to healing is acknowledging the psychological tool that gender-based abuse takes. Regardless of whether you are a survivor or someone who is helping one, keep in mind that recovery is achievable and support is accessible.

    Download the SafecityApp to:

    • Report Gender-Based Violence anonymously.
    • Connect with trauma-informed support services.
    • Find mental health tools and safety resources. 
    Download on Android
    Download on IOS
  • LGBTQ+ and GBV: Overcoming Barriers to Justice

    LGBTQ+ and GBV: Overcoming Barriers to Justice

    “Does your identity make you feel unsafe? That’s not just wrong—it’s a basic human rights issue.”

    People from all walks of life are impacted by gender-based violence (GBV), but for LGBTQ+ people, it often comes with added challenges. Sometimes, the violence they experience is quite specific, rooted in prejudice, stigma, and a lack of understanding. And for many LGBTQ+ survivors, the experience isn’t just about the trauma itself—it’s also about trying to get help in a place that doesn’t always see or support them in the same light as others. From “corrective rape” to family rejection to being harassed just for existing in public, these aren’t rare stories—they’re real and still happening far too often.

    This blog, we’ll help you better understand:

    • The kinds of Gender-based violence LGBTQ+ people often face. 
    • Why it can be so hard to receive help. 
    • What inclusive services are available out there that actually help. 

    In a world where nobody should be left behind, let’s talk about how we can make it more inclusive, since everyone deserves safety, respect, and support at all times.

    What Does GBV Look Like for LGBTQ+ People?

    As part of the society, unfortunately, LGBTQ+ individuals frequently face highly targeted violence, like trying to shame someone for who they are. One of the most extreme and frightening instances is what is known as “corrective rape,” which is when someone is raped in an effort to “fix” their gender identity or sexual orientation. Lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people are primarily impacted by this type of violence, which is frequently perpetrated by a person they know.

    Another prevalent and painful situation is family violence. After coming out, some LGBTQ+ youth experience physical or verbal abuse from family members, are expelled from their homes, or are forced into marriages or conversion therapy.

    Then there is the regular harassment that occurs in public places, workplaces, schools, and hospitals. Bullying, emotional manipulation, threats, misgendering, and service rejection are all too common. All of this can have a significant negative impact on mental health and can result in loneliness, despair, or worry, making it even difficult to ask for assistance for many.

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    Why Is Getting Support So Hard?

    For many, home isn’t a safe space.

    There are many valid reasons why LGBTQ+ people are hesitant. 

    • Fear of judgment or mistreatment: Some survivors fear that they will be misunderstood by law enforcement, shelter employees, or medical professionals, or worse, that they will face discrimination.
    • Risk of being outed: Reporting abuse may require someone who isn’t out to everyone to reveal who they are, which could seem unsafe or even dangerous.
    • Lack of inclusive spaces: Many support services aren’t designed with LGBTQ+ people in mind. Transgender people may be misgendered or rejected. Same-sex couples may be informed they don’t “count.” It can discourage people from getting help because it hurts.

    In addition to making things more difficult, these obstacles prevent people from getting the help they require during some of the most trying times in their lives.

    So What Help Is Out There?

    The good news? An increasing number of inclusive services are emerging, and they are having a significant impact. There are now many professionals and organizations offering therapy that’s sensitive to LGBTQ+ identities and trauma. These spaces are built to support, not judge.

    In several cities, there are shelters that welcome people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. They frequently provide safety planning, trauma-informed support, and even legal assistance. Similarly, some legal organizations focus specifically on LGBTQ+ rights. They can support survivors in reporting abuse, obtaining protection, and pursuing legal action—all the while upholding their identity.

    Community-based resources, such as the Safecity App, which enables users to locate LGBTQ+-friendly organizations in their area and anonymously report instances of gender-based violence. It’s a tiny step in the direction of a slightly safer planet. 

    FAQ

    Can members of the LGBTQ+ community access the same services and shelters as others?

    Yes, in many locations; however, not all areas are yet inclusive. When possible, try to find all-gender or LGBTQ+-friendly services.

    What if someone reports violence out of fear of being exposed?

    That is a legitimate fear. Your identity can be protected with anonymous resources like the Safecity App or LGBTQ+ groups that value privacy.

    Are there any hotlines that are sensitive to the experiences of LGBTQ+ people?

    Indeed! These days, some helplines provide LGBTQ+ concerns training to their employees, and some even employ counselors with expertise in queer trauma and mental health.

    Final Thoughts: Taking That First Step

    LGBTQ+ survivors shouldn’t have to fight extra hard just to be heard or helped. If you or someone you know is looking for support, start with small steps. 

    Download the SafecityApp to:

    • Report Gender-Based Violence anonymously.
    • Connect with trauma-informed support services.
    • Find mental health tools and safety resources. 
    Download on Android
    Download on IOS