Last reviewed: September 2025

Policy Statement

Redditch Community Timebank is committed to providing a safe, healthy, and welcoming environment for all members, volunteers, coordinators, and visitors. Whether participating in exchanges, attending events, or supporting behind the scenes, everyone deserves to feel secure and respected.

We will take all reasonable steps to prevent harm, promote wellbeing, and ensure that health and safety responsibilities are clearly understood and upheld.

Objectives

We aim to:

• Identify and manage risks associated with Timebank activities

• Provide clear guidance and support for safe participation

• Ensure venues and equipment are safe and accessible

• Promote wellbeing and prevent work-related ill health

• Review and improve our practices regularly

Responsibilities

• Steering Group: Holds overall responsibility for health and safety governance

• Timebank Coordinator: Oversees day-to-day implementation and risk management

• Volunteers and Members: Expected to follow safety guidance, report concerns, and act with care toward others

Key Practices

We will:

• Conduct risk assessments for all events and exchanges

• Provide basic health and safety induction for volunteers

• Ensure first aid kits are available at events and venues

• Maintain safe equipment and accessible spaces

• Offer reasonable adjustments for members with health or access needs

• Record and respond to any accidents or incidents

• Review this policy every two years or sooner if needed

Reporting and Response

• Concerns or hazards should be reported to the Timebank Coordinator or event lead

• All accidents must be logged and reviewed

• Serious incidents will be escalated to the Steering Group for investigation

• We will act promptly to prevent recurrence and support those affected

Risk Awareness

We recognise that some members may be at increased risk due to disability, health conditions, or personal circumstances. We will:

• Make reasonable adjustments to support safe participation

• Respect confidentiality while ensuring appropriate safeguards

• Avoid placing anyone in situations that compromise their wellbeing

Lone Working and Home Visits

If volunteers or coordinators engage in lone working or home visits:

• They must inform someone of their location and expected return

• Risk assessments will be conducted for unfamiliar environments

• Support will be provided if concerns arise

Cleanliness and Hygiene

• Venues used for Timebank activities will be kept clean and safe

• Protective equipment will be provided where needed (e.g. gloves for cleaning tasks)

• Members are encouraged to stay home if unwell, especially with contagious conditions

Fire Safety and Emergencies

• Fire exits and evacuation procedures will be clearly communicated at events

• Emergency contacts and first aiders will be identified in advance

• We will comply with venue-specific fire safety regulations

Review and Learning

This policy will be reviewed every two years or following any significant incident. We welcome feedback from members to help improve our approach.