We work hard to make our festival a safe, inclusive space. Nozstock Ltd supports The Association of Independent Festivals Safer Spaces Campaign to raise greater awareness about sexual violence across everyone from audiences to artists to staff and volunteers. Safer Spaces at Festivals – The Association of Independent Festivals (aiforg.com)
Originally launched in 2017, the Safer Spaces campaign aims to spread awareness around consent. Festivals signed up to the campaign pledge that all allegations of sexual harassment, assault and violence will be taken seriously, acted upon promptly and investigated. We are committed to taking a survivor-led approach underpinned by policies, procedures, and training and we will actively promote the principle of consent regarding sexual activity onsite, reiterating that consent can be revoked at any time.
We recognise that festivals and events are a reflection of wider society and societal issues and that there is a lack of education and information on consent. By signing this charter, festival organisers are reaffirming their commitment to delivering a safe environment for audiences, performers and crew.
A person commits sexual assault if they intentionally touch another person; the touching is sexual and the person does not consent. Consent is someone engaging activity if they agree by choice and they have the freedom and capacity to make that choice. Consent can be revoked at any time.
Our safety at festivals page (Safety at Festivals – Nozstock The Hidden Valley Festival) contains info on looking after yourself and others. Be an active bystander by visibly making a stand. The 5Ds of bystander intervention to support someone without putting yourself at risk are Direct, Delegate, Distract, Document and Delay.
Whilst you are on site, please reach out to our security teams to support you if you feel concerned in any way about anything, no matter how small it may seem. If you wish to reach out to us post- event please email events [AT] nozstock.com . Our on site welfare team are available for support and advice.
Survivors who feel unable to report an assault to the police can seek help and guidance by contacting their nearest Sexual Assault Referral Centre. (SARC) The Glade SARC serves the West Mercia area. You can contact them on 0330 223 0099. People can phone the SARC just for a chat and have their evidence stored so they can take time to decide if they want to report to the police. Survivors can also access telephone support via National Rape Crisis Free phone: 0808 500 2222.
