Policy Statement

‘Band of Brothers CIC’ is committed to ensuring, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of all employees, volunteers, participants, and visitors who engage in our activities. We recognise our responsibility to provide a safe working environment and to prevent accidents, injuries, and work-related ill health by managing health and safety risks effectively. We will take all reasonable steps to meet our statutory duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and other relevant legislation.

Aims and Objectives

Our key objectives are to:

• Provide and maintain a safe environment for all staff, volunteers, and participants;
• Assess and control health and safety risks arising from our work activities and community events;
• Provide clear information, instruction, and training where necessary to ensure safety awareness;
• Ensure that all equipment, materials, and premises are safe and used properly;
• Promote a culture of safety and accountability across the organisation;
• Review and improve our health and safety practices regularly.

Responsibilities

Directors / Management Team:

The Directors and Trustees hold overall responsibility for health and safety. They will:

• Ensure this policy is implemented, monitored, and reviewed annually;
• Allocate appropriate resources to maintain health and safety standards;
• Ensure that risk assessments are carried out and control measures implemented;
• Investigate accidents, incidents, and near misses, and take corrective action;
• Ensure compliance with legal obligations.

Staff and Volunteers:

• Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others;
• Follow health and safety instructions, procedures, and training provided;
• Report accidents, hazards, or unsafe practices immediately;
• Cooperate fully with the organisation to maintain safe conditions.

Participants and Visitors:

• Respect safety rules and instructions;
• Take reasonable care for their own safety and that of others;
• Report any concerns or hazards to a member of staff or volunteer.

Risk Assessment

Risk Assessments will be conducted for all regular activities, events, and new initiatives. These will identify potential hazards, assess risks, and establish control measures to minimise harm.

Assessments will be reviewed:

• Annually, or following any significant change to activities, venues, or equipment;
• After any incident or near miss.

First Aid and Accident Reporting

Appropriate first aid provisions will be available at all sessions and events. A trained first aider will be present, or accessible, where possible. All accidents, injuries, and near misses must be recorded in the Accident Book. Serious incidents will be reported under RIDDOR (2013).

Fire Safety

All venues used by ‘Band of Brothers CIC’ will have clear fire safety procedures in place. Fire exits will be kept clear, and participants will be made aware of evacuation routes. Fire drills and risk checks will be completed where applicable.

Welfare and Mental Health

‘Band of Brothers CIC’ recognises that health and safety extend beyond physical wellbeing. We are committed to promoting mental health awareness, offering support to those experiencing challenges and maintaining an environment of understanding, respect, and compassion.

Training

All staff and volunteers will receive suitable induction and specific training relevant to their roles, including:

• Safeguarding awareness;
• First aid (where applicable);
• Risk management;
• Manual handling or event safety (where relevant).