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The purpose of the policy:

The aim of the Health and Safety policy is to give an understanding of the safety measures that should be taken by volunteers, befrienders and helpers when operating in venues, at events or when accompanying people. 

This policy is to offer guidelines to all people who take part in Wakefield District City of Sanctuary activities.

This policy is to help people avoid accidents, unsafe working practices, damage to buildings and damage to people. 

We recognise that some safety practices will be location specific

We will ensure that partner organizations who provide venues offer safe surroundings and have health and safety policies in place.   

We will seek to offer people a safe environment by:

  • The Lead Volunteer or volunteer in charge of running sessions, event or activity, will be responsible for ensuring the area or venue being used is safe.
  • Lead Volunteers and volunteers running sessions should be aware of how to operate the lighting, general electrical equipment such as kettles, and which doors are fire doors.
  • Lead Volunteers and venue keyholders should know how to secure the building when entering and leaving. 
  • Lead Volunteers or people running sessions should be aware of alarm systems, fire alarm procedures and evacuation routes.
  • Lead Volunteers should ensure that at least one volunteer has a phone when working in a venue without a landline.
  • Volunteers should avoid loan working, however, if volunteers are in a venue on their own it would be advisable for them to have a phone or leave an estimated time return.    
  • Lead Volunteers should make sure that volunteers are aware of basic safety procedures associated with the venue.
  • Lead Volunteers and volunteers running sessions or activities have a responsibility to make sure that all equipment and materials are safe to use and age appropriate. 
  • When hiring equipment, every effort should be made to make sure that the equipment is safe.
  • Regular risk assessments should be carried out and updated at all venues.
  • Risk assessments for activities should be recorded and given to the Lead Volunteer to file.
  • Lead Volunteers should know where the basic first aid kit is kept.
  • All first aid kits should be regularly checked.
  • Minor injuries should be treated simply and people should be advised to seek medical advice if they are concerned. 
  • All accidents and minor injuries should be recorded.    

Written: 18th March 2017.
Updated: 9th Feb 2023