Free Workshop to Equip Ottawa Nightlife Workers with Tools to Prevent Harassment and Violence

September 17, 2025

Ottawa, ON — A series of free workshops will soon be offered to support staff working in Ottawa’s nightlife sector, including venues, bars, and nightclubs. The initiative is designed to create safer, more responsive nightlife environments by providing frontline workers with practical tools to prevent and address harassment and violence, particularly sexual violence.

This initiative is part of the Nightlife Safety and Wellbeing Action Plan of the Ottawa Nightlife Office, which aims to strengthen safety, inclusion, and resilience across the city’s nightlife community.

The workshops are being delivered by Social Collective, a Canadian harm reduction organization known for its expertise in nightlife safety, community health, and inclusive training programs across the country. Social Collective specializes in working with nightlife venues, festivals, and cultural spaces to equip staff and communities with the tools they need to promote safety, reduce harm, and foster positive experiences.

Are you a bartender, manager, security staff, or frontline worker in a nightlife venue? This workshop is for you!

The training sessions will cover:

• Bystander intervention strategies

• Harassment and sexual violence prevention approaches

• Understanding and addressing involuntary intoxication

• Supporting staff well-being and resilience

• Practical tips for developing internal practices and policies

• An overview of local resources for support, health, and safety

Workshops will take place at Club SAW, Arts Court on the following dates:

• October 12 (English), 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

• November 15 (French), 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

• November 16 (English), 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Organizers emphasize that the training is not only about protecting patrons but also about empowering nightlife staff with the knowledge and confidence to manage challenging situations and support one another in the workplace. By fostering safer spaces and healthier workplaces, the sessions aim to strengthen Ottawa’s growing commitment to a vibrant, inclusive, and safe nightlife.

Participation is free of charge, and nightlife workers across the city are encouraged to attend.

Interested?