The 5 Ds

What can you do when you identify violence?

Safety is paramount when responding to violence. Before taking action, ensure your own safety first.

Think the 5 Ds! Distract, Delegate, Document, Delay, and Direct. These strategies can help you respond effectively while prioritising your well-being and the safety of others.

The image shows a circular diagram with the words: Distract, Delegate, Document, Delay, Direct, arranged in a clockwise manner.

1. Distract

Interrupt what is happening.

Talk to the targeted person.  Pretend you know them, and ask for the time, or directions.

Do not talk to the perpetrator. Engage directly with the person being harassed.

Don’t refer to the harassment that’s happening. Talk about something completely different.

This image shows two women smiling joyfully. One hugs the other from behind. Both wear hoop earrings and casual clothes.

2. Delegate

Ask someone for help.

Someone in a position of authority for example, a teacher, lecturer, bus or train driver, security guard, or manager.

Find a delegate who is ready and willing to help.

Be clear when you delegate. Tell people precisely what you are witnessing and what you are expecting  of them.

This image depicts a woman wearing a purple blazer and white shirt. Her lips are red, and she looks sideways.

3. Document

Record what is happening.

This is to help the person being targeted if they want to report what happened.

Only try to document if someone else is already helping the person being targeted. If they’re not, then try one of the other D’s first.

Check with the person being targeted if they would like you to document what is happening. If they say  ‘no’, don’t do it.

Never post or use without the permission of the person being targeted.

The image shows a woman with her mouth taped, wearing purple, with the words "#MeToo" in bold purple text.

4. Delay

Check with the person who was targeted and offer to help.

“Are you okay?”

Check in. Offer to help. Share resources if you can.

The image shows two women, one with red hair and freckles, and the other with dark skin, hugging affectionately.

5. Direct

Respond directly to what is happening.

Call out a perpetrator, naming what is happening or saying that it’s not okay.

Direct intervention can be risky. The perpetrator’s actions could get worse or they could also turn on you or others.

Be brief and accurate. Do not exaggerate.  

Speak calmly and politely. Avoid arguing.

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The 5 Ds model was created in 2012 by Green Dot and Right to Be (formerly Hollaback!).

The 5 Ds model is a practical framework designed to help individuals respond to situations involving harassment, violence, or other forms of abuse, particularly in public or social settings. The model emphasises safety and effectiveness by providing various strategies to address and intervene in problematic situations.