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Tag: safecity

  • Rethinking Nightlife: Building a Safer Culture for Students in Greater Manchester

    Rethinking Nightlife: Building a Safer Culture for Students in Greater Manchester

    Picture of the University of Manchester, UK

    I remember when I was at university, nightlife was and continues to be a characteristic aspect of student life. From the excitement of Freshers’ Week to weekly pub trips, sports nights, and clubbing, students tend to live a significant portion of their university lives through the context of going out.

    In Greater Manchester, and specifically the University of Manchester, which in 2016 was ranked 6th best for nightlife in the UK, the nightlife economy is a significant part of both student life and the local economy, which many students participate in and eagerly anticipate each week1. However, behind the fun and enjoyment is a shockingly sad reality: where harassment, intimidation and violence target young women, LGBTQ+ students and racially marginalised groups. For example, in 2024, a man was arrested for following women around and filming them without their consent in Manchester City Centre2. This case is one of many examples of the reality of what many women face daily.

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    An ongoing study by Safecity found that women and sexually marginalised people rated the city as less safe compared to their similar counterparts. The findings also showed that harassment (unwanted comments, staring, touching and stalking) of 18-25 year olds, particularly women, occurred mainly between 1-4 am when people are going to and from nightlife venues. 

    Sadly, only 4% of the people surveyed reported taking their cases to the police, whilst the other 96% said that they “lacked trust in the police” or believed it would be “useless to report it”. This silence reflects a culture where harassment is normalised to the point that victims are left without support or protection.

    Hey! If you liked what you are reading and wants to participate in the research, please feel free to scan the QR that takes you to our survey! Please note that this is an anonymous survey!

    The truth is that the current nightlife culture can lead to, normalise, or even conceal harmful behaviours through banter culture, peer pressure or bystander silence because they don’t wish to make things awkward. Many young people go on to accept these experiences as simply part of a night out. The result is an environment where enjoyment and safety conflict. Greater Manchester recognises this issue of bystander silence and, according to their latest safety audit, is working to build on preventative education in schools and universities so that both staff and students have the training to keep others and themselves safe. 

    We, at Safecity, believe that student traditions and nightlife itself can be used to challenge and prevent these patterns. Rather than accepting unsafe norms, universities, student unions, and groups can help to change nightlife traditions to put safety, consent and collective responsibility at the centre. For example, sports nights (a weekly Wednesday night tradition of sports societies going out to a pub or club) are one of the most iconic and busiest events in student life. However, imagine if every sports society partnered with Safecity to include consent training and messages in their event planning and advertising. Or imagine if all society wellbeing officers were trained in nightlife safety, and could make these club nights out safer for young people. These small changes would help shift nightlife culture to centre safety for young people so that they don’t have to sacrifice their safety for enjoyment. 

    Nightlife is meant to be a fun and exciting way to spend time with friends. When students attend sports nights, pub trips and house parties, they’re living and enjoying their student experience. By embedding micro-campaigns, safety initiatives, and bystander empowerment into these traditions and events, Greater Manchester can make the streets safe again by raising awareness and making it easier to recognise behaviours, because you shouldn’t have to risk your safety to have fun; the two should be hand in hand.

    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

  • Bystanders Action for Better Commutes

    Bystanders Action for Better Commutes

    Author: Maya Brown, Student of King’s College London, Graduated in 2025

    As a student, I often used public transportation to reach classes and social events. But as I started working, I realised that I am still quite dependent on the public transportation system – I wonder how many readers are just like me, who start and end their days with the help of a train or a bus. This is the case in Greater Manchester, where 64% of young people use public transport every week1. 

    However, in an ongoing study by Safecity, exploring patterns of gender based violence and unsafety in Greater Manchester through anonymous safety audits, the data revealed that 77% of respondents who used the bus as their primary form of transportation reported feeling unsafe. This is due to a variety of reasons, such as poorly lit bus stops, harassment, and transport delays. In 2019, the BBC reported that a man made lewd comments and sexual gestures to a 26-year-old woman on her way back home. He also threatened a passenger who tried to intervene in the situation2 .This is the shocking reality that many young women face daily as they simply try to go about their day.

    Hey! If you liked what you are reading and wants to participate in the research, please feel free to scan the QR that takes you to our survey! Please note that this is an anonymous survey!

    These experiences shape women’s experience of public transport. We all want to feel safe in public and on transportation, and we all have a right to do so. At Safecity, this can be achieved through crowdsourced anonymous reporting that creates a location-based safety map. This visualisation of incidents on the ground through data can help transport users be aware of high-risk routes and areas when planning their journey. This reliable approach allows for data-informed and evidence-based targeted interventions.

    Bystander intervention is a proven way of reducing incidents of harassment in places by intimidating the harasser and giving witnesses the ability to act and intervene. This helps create a culture of intolerance towards harassment and gender based violence. Through interventions, bystanders can empower and protect victims whilst holding harassers accountable for their actions. Women should not have to be scared to use public transport, and together we can help make our journeys safer. 

    Transport for Greater Manchester is actively introducing targeted measures, such as an emergency contact system that allows public transport passengers to discreetly alert police if they feel unsafe or witness someone else in danger. The Safecity model believes that citizens can also be champions of change. Mancunions who take public transport can take an active role in making public transport safer for everyone through bystander intervention. It’s as simple as the 5 D’s (Direct, Distract, Delegate, Delay, and Document) developed by the Right to be organisation3. 

    These 5 D’s of bystander intervention can be used on public transport as a way for citizens to counteract harassment in public places. Direct is to speak up against the behaviour or support the person being targeted (e.g., asking if they’d like to switch seats). Distracting is to interrupt the situation without confrontation, such as asking the person for directions or starting a casual conversation. The delegate is to seek help from a driver, conductor, station staff, or other passenger.  Delay is to check in with the person afterwards to see if they’re okay and offer support. And lastly, Document is to record the incident to share with authorities if needed. These small steps that people can take daily can be part of a big change.

    So, next time you’re on public transport, look around and see what you can do to help make your journey a little bit safer. But remember, we have to be careful and safe first to help someone.

    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
    1. “Greater Manchester Metrolink: Public Transport Abuse ‘All Too Common,’ ” BBC News, May 15, 2019, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-48278874. ↩︎
    2. “Greater Manchester Metrolink: Public Transport Abuse ‘All Too Common,’ ” BBC News, May 15, 2019, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-48278874.
      ↩︎
    3.  Right To Be, “The 5Ds of Bystander Intervention,” Right To Be, 2022, https://righttobe.org/guides/bystander-intervention-training/.
      ↩︎
  • Growing Up Online: GM Findings on Identity Bias

    Growing Up Online: GM Findings on Identity Bias

    Author: Maya Brown, Student of King’s College London, Graduated in 2025

    In March 2025, Adolescence, a British psychological crime drama series, premiered on Netflix. The show centred around a young boy, Jamie, who is arrested for the murder of his female classmate.

    This show sparked a conversation around the ‘manosphere’, which is a collection of online spaces that promote masculinity, misogyny, and oppose feminism. The show has been praised for shining a light on how misogyny spreads and indoctrinates children, specifically naming Andrew Tate as one of the instigators. Amnesty International reported that in 2025, “an overwhelming 73% of Gen Z social media users have witnessed misogynistic content online, with half encountering it on a weekly basis”1 

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    In politics and the media, the show has been regarded as a remarkable piece of work, raising awareness about gender-based violence against women. The show leaves us with a message about internet safety and the importance of protecting young people. 

    In the UK, there exists a culture around misogyny, and this takes many forms—for example, unconscious biases, cultural stereotypes, public harassment, intimate partner violence, etc. In a shockingly normal town with normal people living normal lives, we see how it could’ve been any child that ended up like Jamie, indoctrinated by the misogynistic media he consumed. We all knew or were the grumpy adolescents who spent hours locked away in their room on the computer. Culturally, ‘Adolescence’ is about the shocking influence of social media, toxic masculinity and online misogyny. This is the reality our youth are growing up with. In an ongoing research project led by Safecity exploring patterns of gender based violence and unsafety in Greater Manchester through social audits, the data shows how widespread harassment and gender-based violence truly are, predominately towards women aged 18-25 years olds, bisexual or lesbian women and ethnic minorities. The data further highlights how patterns in where and at what time harassment is experienced demonstrate the very issues the show portrays. 

    Steps can be taken in and around Greater Manchester to make it safer for women. Having better lighting and CCTV in public spaces or regular transport services will mean that people aren’t waiting for a long time at a dimly lit bus stop. Safecity’s location-based map visualisation is a helpful tool for both individuals, city planners in Greater Manchester and communities to identify high-risk harassment areas. This can lead to tangible changes such as improved surveillance or better street lighting. However, these are all big changes. Individual changes are just as important. 

    Hey! If you liked what you are reading and wants to participate in the research, please feel free to scan the QR that takes you to our survey! Please note that this is an anonymous survey!

    For example, sharing your location with a friend, travelling home together, staying on main roads rather than taking dark side streets, are all easy steps that women can take to feel safer in public. This conversation, however, must also include the whole population, not just women. We must educate our youth on gender equality, healthy relationships with women, online safety, and encourage them to spend time offline and in person, forming real connections. This will help us all feel safer online and in person and work towards building a safer, more inclusive community.

    The show is a plea for change, for children, for parents, for adults. If you are passionate about this cause then please help Safecity conduct a safety audit by reporting a sexual and gender based violence incident anonymously. Your data is your story, and we are listening.

    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
    1. Amnesty International UK, “Toxic Tech: New Polling Exposes Widespread Online Misogyny Driving Gen Z Away from Social Media,” AmnestyUK, March 21, 2025, https://www.amnesty.org.uk/press-releases/toxic-tech-new-polling-exposes-widespread-online-misogyny-driving-gen-z-away-social. ↩︎

  • 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
  • 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
  • Online Gender-Based Violence: Digital Abuse in the Internet Age

    Online Gender-Based Violence: Digital Abuse in the Internet Age

    In today’s world, our digital lives serve as an extension of our identities. However, as we reveal more of ourselves online, the risks continue to increase, especially for women and marginalized communities. Gender-based violence (GBV) on the internet is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Digital abuse, whether it takes the form of targeted hate speech, threatening messages, or the unconsented posting of private images, may be just as damaging and traumatic as physical violence.

    This blog will focus on:

    • What online GBV looks like.
    • Useful steps to protect yourself online.
    • Where to report incidents safely and confidentially.

    What is Online Gender-Based Violence?
    Any act of damage or abuse carried out via digital platforms that is rooted in inequality or directed at someone based on their gender or sexual identity is referred to as online gender-based violence. Just like offline abuse, it often controls, humiliates, and intimidates others, making them feel inferior and helpless. 

    Common Types of Online GBV:

    • Cyberstalking: Unwanted recurring digital contact or surveillance (e.g., GPS tracking, excessive texting).
    • Revenge P*rn: Sharing intimate, sexual photos or videos without consent. 
    • Doxing: Posting private information like home addresses, phone numbers, or specific locations to promote harassment. 
    • Online Hate Speech: Targeted insults or threats based on gender, sexual orientation, or identity. 

    How to Protect Yourself from Online Harassment

    There are digital practices that can help protect your online environment. Such as:

    • Strengthen your digital presence through strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your accounts. 
    • Modify your social media privacy settings to limit access to who can view your content.
    • Avoid oversharing personal details like your workplace, location, or everyday activities. 

    Abuse on the internet is more than “just words on a screen.” It’s real abuse, and it must be taken seriously. 

    Where to Report Digital Abuse Safely
    You don’t have to deal with violence on the internet by yourself. Through platforms and legal systems, there are a variety of resources and reporting avenues available. Take a look at some:

    1. Social Media Platforms: Most major platforms have reporting tools for abuse and showing explicit content. 
    2. Cybercrime Cells: Several nations offer specialized units specific to cyber-bullying.
    3. Safecity App: A safe and secure platform to report abuse anonymously. 

    Additionally, NGOs and legal support groups often help survivors in seeking counseling or submitting formal complaints. 

    FAQ

    Is it illegal to share someone’s private pictures without consent?

    Absolutely. In many countries, this is considered a serious crime under laws relating to sexual harassment, cyberbullying, or privacy violations.

    What if I’m not sure it’s abuse?

    If it feels threatening, invasive, or makes you uncomfortable, it’s valid. Trust your gut, talk to someone, or seek help.

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    Take the First Step Toward a Safer Internet

    Online spaces should feel empowering—not dangerous. Whether you’re dealing with online GBV or supporting someone who is, remember that you’re not alone, and help is available.

    Download the SafecityApp to:

    • Anonymously report incidents of digital or physical abuse. 
    • Access resources for mental health, legal aid, and safety planning. 
    • Connect with local support services. 
    Download on Android
    Download on IOS
  • Domestic Violence: Recognizing, Responding & Reporting

    Domestic Violence: Recognizing, Responding & Reporting

    “1 in 3 women globally have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.”

    This shocking statistic by the World Health Organization is more than just a number—it represents real people, real pain, and real silence. Domestic violence is a form of gender-based violence (GBV) that affects individuals across all ages, backgrounds, and communities. It often happens behind closed doors, making it difficult to recognize or talk about. But knowing the signs and understanding how to respond can be the first step toward safety and healing.

    In this blog, we’ll help you:

    • Understand what domestic violence looks like.
    • Recognize signs that you or someone you know might be a victim.
    • Learn how to safely leave an abusive relationship.
    • Discover where to report abuse and find support.

    Let’s break the silence, because no one deserves to live in fear—especially not at home.

    What Is Domestic Violence?
    Domestic violence is any form of abuse or violence that occurs within a domestic setting- typically between partners or family members. It can be physical, emotional, verbal, financial, or sexual. Often, it’s a pattern of behavior aimed at gaining or maintaining power and control over another person.

    Sounds confusing? Let’s break it down.

    • Physical abuse – Hitting, slapping, choking, or any physical harm.
    • Emotional abuse – Insults, manipulation, or threats to lower someone’s self-worth.
    • Verbal abuse – Yelling, name-calling, or constant criticism.
    • Financial abuse – Controlling all the money or not allowing someone to work.
    • Sexual abuse – Forcing or pressuring someone into unwanted sexual acts.

    Domestic violence isn’t just about physical harm—it’s about control and power. If you or someone you know is experiencing this, help is available.

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    Where Can Victims of Domestic Violence Report Abuse?
    If you’re experiencing abuse, it’s important to know there are safe and confidential places you can turn to.

    • Depending on your country, national helplines are available 24/7 to offer support and guidance. In urgent situations, calling the police can help ensure immediate safety.
    • Women’s shelters can provide temporary accommodation and emotional, legal, or medical support. If privacy is a concern, online platforms like the Safecity App allow you to report incidents anonymously and access local support services—all from your phone.

    Taking that first step to reach out is brave, and it can lead to the help you need.

    How Can One Safely Leave an Abusive Relationship?
    Leaving an abusive relationship can be difficult and dangerous, so it’s crucial to plan ahead if possible.

    1. Start by identifying someone you trust- a friend, family member, or counselor- who can support you emotionally and practically.
    2. Think through a basic safety plan: where you would go, how you’d get there, and what essentials you’d need, such as ID, money, or medications.
    3. Avoid sharing your plans with the abuser or posting about them online. If you’re in immediate danger, call emergency services or go to a safe place.
    4. Apps like Safecity can also help you find nearby shelters or legal aid discreetly.

    FAQ

    Will reporting abuse mean I’ll be forced to leave home immediately?

    Not necessarily. Trained professionals can help you assess your options and make decisions that prioritize your safety and well-being.

    Is verbal abuse considered domestic violence?

    Absolutely. Emotional and verbal abuse can have lasting effects and is recognized as a serious form of domestic violence.

    Can men be victims of domestic violence?

    Yes. While women are more commonly affected, men can also experience domestic abuse in both heterosexual and same-sex relationships.

    Take the First Step Toward Safety
    Recognizing domestic violence is the first step but taking action is what truly changes lives. Whether you’re a victim, a friend, or someone who simply wants to help, know that your voice and your choices matter.

    Download the SafecityApp to:

    • Anonymously report incidents
    • Connect with nearby support services
    • Access safety tips and legal resources
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    Speak Up. Share your story. Make your city safer.

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