Stand Up Spik Oot was created to challenge gender-based violence by engaging men as active voices for change. Rather than speaking about the issue from the sidelines, the campaign puts Shetland men front and centre, asking them to reflect, to speak out, and to inspire others to do the same. 

What is Gender Based Violence?

Gender Based Violence is violence directed at someone based on their gender or perceived gender. Examples include violence against women and girls and intimate partner violence. Predominately, this is violence being carried out by men against women and girls. This is why it is essential to involve local men to stand up and say that this behaviour is not acceptable in Shetland. Usually, it is women and girls who speak out against GBV and that’s why we specifically targeted male voices within this campaign.

What we asked Participants to do?

Men from across Shetland provided short video clips or quotes to;

· Speak up against harmful behaviours

· Challenge sexism and abuse

· Support survivors in our community

We hope their participation can help inspire others and show that Shetland is united in building a safer, more respectful community.

The participants

The eight men who took part in Stand Up Spik Oot come from across the Shetland community. Their willingness to speak openly about gender-based violence represents a significant step in shifting attitudes and starting conversations that can be difficult to have. We’d like to thank the participants for stepping forward and allowing this project to go ahead.

What’s next?

Whilst the campaign film is now complete, Stand Up Spik Oot is far from over. If watching the film has inspired you to add your voice, we would love to hear from you. We need men and boys in Shetland to speak out and make it clear GBV is not acceptable, help insire others and show that Shetland is united in building a safer, more respectful community. 

If you would like to add your voice please email a short quote to campaign@compasscentre.org and we will post this below.

Stand Up, Spik Oot - full video: 

Stand up, Spik Oot - individual videos: 

    Alex Armitage - Shetland South Councillor, Scottish Green Party

    Chris Sewell - Local Area Commander Police Scotland

    Martin Tregonning - Chartered Accountant

     Stan Semple - Local Football Manager

Voices of support: 

“Gender based violence should be called out at every opportunity. We need to make Shetland a safe place for everyone.’’

Robbie McGregor, Shetland South SNP Councillor

“Shetland should be a community where everyone feels safe and respected. We can and must make a difference by calling out Gender based violence when we see it. Remaining silent will only result in abuse continuing with devastating impacts.“

Steven Coutts, Chief Executive Officer, COPE Ltd

“I strongly believe that respect and inclusion of everyone is essential, whether inside or outside of the workplace. Shetland is a small community, and that means everyone has a responsibility to challenge abuse because everyone should have the right to feel safe here, regardless of gender.“

Chris Manson, General Manager, Jim’s Garage

“As the father of 3 girls, I have always wanted them to feel and be safe. I feel it’s my responsibility to be part of the solution and stand up to make sure all women and girls feel safe in Shetland.”

Andy Sandison

Stand Up Spik Oot is generously funded by Shetland Charitable Trust Innovation Grant Scheme.