Welcome

Thank you for volunteering your time and energy. This campaign depends on goodwill, trust, and mutual respect. Your safety and wellbeing matter more than any leaflet, sign, or vote.

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This manual explains:

• how we keep volunteers safe

• what risks to watch for

• what to do if something feels unsafe

• your rights and responsibilities as a volunteer

 

1. Health and Safety Commitment

This campaign is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all volunteers.

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Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, the campaign has a duty to take reasonably practicable steps to ensure your health and safety while volunteering. You also have responsibilities to look after yourself and others.

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No volunteer is ever expected to:

• take risks they are uncomfortable with

• continue an activity that feels unsafe

• put politeness above personal safety

 

2. Your Rights as a Volunteer

You have the right to:

• clear instructions and expectations

• a safe environment, so far as reasonably practicable

• stop volunteering if you feel unsafe

• report hazards, incidents, or near-misses

• be treated with dignity and respect

There will be no negative consequences for raising safety concerns.

 

3. Your Responsibilities as a Volunteer

You are expected to:

• follow guidance in this manual

• take reasonable care for your own safety

• look out for others

• report hazards or incidents promptly

• avoid unsafe shortcuts or “pushing through” discomfort

 

4. General Safety Principles

Always:

• trust your instincts

• disengage early rather than late

• prioritise safety over campaigning goals

• ask questions if unsure

• take breaks, hydrate, and rest

Never:

• enter someone’s home

• confront aggressive individuals

• block footpaths or traffic

• continue if tired, stressed, or unwell

 

5. Hazard Identification & Checklists (By Activity)

A. Door-Knocking / Canvassing

Common Hazards

• aggressive or abusive residents

• dogs or animals

• slips, trips, uneven paths

• locked or unstable gates

• weather exposure

• fatigue

• unfamiliar neighbourhoods

Risk Controls

• canvass during daylight hours only

• work in pairs where possible

• do not enter homes

• disengage immediately if uncomfortable

• skip properties with aggressive signage or unsecured dogs

• wear suitable footwear

• carry a phone

• take regular breaks

Volunteer Checklist

• I have a charged phone

• I am dressed for the weather

• I know I can leave at any time

• I will not enter homes

• I will disengage from hostility immediately

 

B. Street Stalls, Markets, Public Events

Common Hazards

• traffic nearby

• uneven ground

• trip hazards from banners or gazebos

• sun exposure

• dehydration

• confrontational passers-by

• crowding

Risk Controls

• choose safe locations away from traffic

• secure gazebos and signage

• keep footpaths clear

• use sunscreen, hats, water

• rotate volunteers

• disengage from aggressive individuals

Volunteer Checklist

• Stall is stable and secure

• Footpaths are clear

• I have sun protection and water

• I know who to call if an issue arises

 

C. Sign Erection and Removal

Common Hazards

• working near roads

• lifting strain

• unstable ground

• weather conditions

• tools or stakes

Risk Controls

• avoid peak traffic times

• wear high-visibility clothing near roads

• lift within personal limits

• stop in poor weather

• never place signs in unsafe locations

Volunteer Checklist

• High-vis clothing worn (if near roads)

• Traffic risk assessed

• Lifting done safely

• Weather conditions suitable

 

D. Driving for Campaign Purposes

Common Hazards

• fatigue

• rushing between locations

• poor weather

• distractions

Risk Controls

• volunteers drive their own vehicles

• no pressure to rush

• take breaks

• do not drive if tired or unwell

Volunteer Checklist

• I feel fit to drive

• I am not being rushed

• I will stop if tired

 

E. Office / Home-Based Campaign Work

Common Hazards

• slips, trips

• electrical cords

• fatigue

• poor ergonomics

Risk Controls

• tidy workspaces

• safe use of equipment

• regular breaks

• comfortable seating

Volunteer Checklist

• Workspace is clear

• Breaks taken regularly

 

6. Managing Difficult or Aggressive Behaviour

If someone becomes:

• abusive

• threatening

• intimidating

You should:

• disengage immediately

• leave the area

• contact the campaign lead if appropriate

• call emergency services if you feel in danger

You are never expected to “handle” aggression.

 

7. Weather and Environmental Safety

Activities may be paused or cancelled due to:

• extreme heat

• high winds

• heavy rain

• unsafe ground conditions

If in doubt: stop.

 

8. Incident and Hazard Reporting

Please report:

• injuries (even minor)

• near-misses

• unsafe conditions

• aggressive encounters

Reports can be:

• verbal

• by message

• by email

The purpose is learning and prevention, not blame.

 

9. Emergency Situations

In an emergency:

1. Ensure immediate safety

2. Call 111 if required

3. Notify the campaign lead as soon as practicable

 

10. Final Word

This campaign values people over politics.
No vote, leaflet, or sign is worth an injury or distress.

If something does not feel right, stop and step away.

Thank you for being part of this effort.