1. Introduction

Giving Back Generation ("GBG") is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of all individuals involved in our activities, including staff, volunteers, beneficiaries, and visitors. This Health and Safety Policy outlines our approach to maintaining a safe and secure environment.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

• All GBG premises and any locations where GBG activities or events are held.
• All individuals involved in GBG activities, including employees, volunteers, contractors, and beneficiaries.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 GBG Leadership (Trustees and Management)

• Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation.
• Provide adequate resources for health and safety measures.
• Regularly review and update this policy to reflect current practices and legislation.
• Investigate and address any health and safety incidents or concerns promptly.

3.2 Employees and Volunteers

• Follow all health and safety procedures and guidelines provided by GBG.
• Report any hazards, near misses, or incidents to their supervisor or designated safety officer.
• Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others.

3.3 Contractors and Third Parties

• Adhere to GBG’s health and safety standards while working on GBG premises or projects.
• Provide evidence of their own health and safety policies upon request.

4. General Safety Measures

4.1 Risk Assessments

• Conduct risk assessments for all activities, events, and premises to identify potential hazards and implement controls.
• Review risk assessments regularly and update them as needed.

4.2 Training and Awareness

• Provide health and safety training to all employees and volunteers during induction and periodically thereafter.
• Ensure individuals are aware of emergency procedures, including fire evacuation routes and first aid provisions.

4.3 First Aid

• Maintain adequate first aid supplies at all GBG locations.
• Ensure that trained first aiders are available during activities and events.
• Record and report any first aid incidents in accordance with legal requirements.

4.4 Fire Safety

• Equip premises with appropriate fire detection and suppression systems.
• Conduct regular fire drills to ensure familiarity with evacuation procedures.
• Display clear signage for fire exits and assembly points.

4.5 Equipment Safety

• Inspect and maintain tools, equipment, and vehicles used in GBG activities to ensure they are safe and fit for purpose.
• Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) where necessary.

5. Safeguarding Specific Groups

5.1 Vulnerable Individuals

• Implement additional safeguarding measures for young people, elderly individuals, and others requiring special care.
• Ensure volunteers and staff working with vulnerable groups undergo background checks.

5.2 COVID-19 and Public Health Measures

• Follow government guidelines to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.
• Provide hand sanitisation stations, promote social distancing where applicable, and encourage the use of masks during high-risk periods.

6. Reporting and Incident Management

• All incidents, including accidents, near misses, and breaches of safety protocols, must be reported immediately to a supervisor or safety officer.
• Document incidents in the GBG Incident Report Log and investigate to identify causes and preventive measures.
• Notify relevant authorities if required by law.

7. Emergency Procedures

• Display emergency contact numbers prominently at all GBG locations.
• Ensure all employees and volunteers are familiar with emergency evacuation plans.
• Designate safety officers to coordinate responses during emergencies.

8. Monitoring and Review

• Regularly inspect GBG premises and activities to ensure compliance with this policy.
• Review this policy annually and after any significant incident or legislative change.

9. Contact Information

For health and safety concerns or reports, please contact:

Giving Back Generation Limited
662 High Road, N12 0NL
contact@givingbackgeneration.org.uk

Emergency Contact Number: 999

By adhering to this Health and Safety Policy, we ensure that GBG remains a safe and welcoming environment for everyone involved in our mission to empower communities.

‍