Don’t be ‘That Guy’... Be an Ally for Women
THAT GUY is a campaign from Police Scotland that’s all about starting real conversations with men about respect, consent, and how we treat women. The aim? To stop sexual harassment, assault, and rape—and make life, on and off campus, safer for everyone.
College should be a place where everyone feels free to study, hang out, and have fun without worrying about what someone might say or do. But for too many of our friends, classmates and colleagues who are women, that’s not the reality.
Men, what can we do:
We can make a big difference by thinking about how we act—whether that’s on a night out, in the group chat, at a flat party, or even just walking home after class.
- Ever heard a mate make a “joke” that crosses the line? Call it out.
- Seen someone getting too pushy in the club? Step in.
- Sharing memes or comments that put women down? Think twice and ask yourself ‘if someone posted this about my sister, mum, auntie or friend, how would I feel?’
It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being better. About creating a culture where respect is the norm, not the exception.
Sometimes it’s hard to know what to do in certain situations, so here are some tips to give you ideas and help build your confidence to act.
- Don’t be THAT GUY who stays silent
- Do you have a mate who goes too far and steps out of line when it comes to women?
- What can you say to make a difference and stop him doing something he regrets?
Start with yourself
Most guys have said or done things they regret. It’s not easy to admit, but reflecting on your own behaviour helps you be a better friend—and a better man.
Watch this video and ask yourself if you recognise any of the behaviours in yourself… LOOK IN THE MIRROR
Pick the right moment
Calling someone out in front of a group usually backfires. Instead, have a quiet word when things are calm—after the gym, over coffee, or while gaming. Avoid times when alcohol, drugs, or anger are involved.
Listen to women
Women deal with harassment and assault way more than men. Talk to the women in your life and hear what it’s like for them. If that makes you angry or upset, use it as motivation to help change things.
Speak up when it matters
If a mate says something that’s not okay, let him know. You don’t have to make a scene—just be clear. Chances are others agree with you but don’t speak up.
Be the friend you’d want
If you were about to make a big mistake, wouldn’t you want someone to step in? Think of it like subbing a player before he gets a red card—it’s for his own good and the team’s.
For more information and helpful suggestions on how you can be an ally to women and not ‘THAT GUY’ go to the website That Guy and follow the campaign on all the usual social media sites…
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0etMfCVLCKdYIzXNjYelz5
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC930ccAE1g8TSnEjEMIDcCw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatguyscotland/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThatGuyScotland/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatguyscotland
X: https://x.com/ThatGuyScotland
Please, don’t stay silent. #DontBeThatGuy—be the mate who looks out for others.