Health, Safety and First Aid Support Policy

 
This policy has been adopted by the committee of the Tankerton Bay Women’s
Institute in line with the principles of good practice and member wellbeing promoted
by the National Federation of Women's Institutes.
 
Purpose: The committee recognises its duty to take reasonable steps to support the
health, safety and wellbeing of members, visitors and volunteers attending WI
meetings and activities.
This policy sets out the arrangements in place for responding to incidents requiring
basic first aid or emergency assistance during WI activities.
 
Scope: This policy applies to:
• Monthly WI meetings
• Committee meetings
• WI-organised events, outings and activities
• Any venue used for official WI business
 
General Principles:
• The WI is not a medical provider, and committee members act on a voluntary
basis.
• Any assistance provided will be limited to the individual’s level of training,
confidence and competence.
• In an emergency situation, emergency services will be contacted immediately
by dialling 999.
• Members remain responsible for managing their own health conditions and
medication requirements where possible.
 
First Aid Arrangements:
 A basic first aid kit will be available at WI meetings and organised activities
wherever practical.
• The meeting venue’s own health and safety and emergency procedures will be
followed where applicable.
• The committee will ensure members are aware of the location of emergency
exits and, where known, any publicly accessible defibrillator.
 
Responding to an Incident: In the event of illness, injury or medical emergency:
1. A committee member will assess the immediate situation.
2. Appropriate assistance will be offered within the limits of available training.
3. Emergency services will be contacted where necessary.
4. Where appropriate, the member’s emergency contact may be informed.
5. Serious incidents or accidents will be recorded by the committee.
 
Risk Assessment and Events: The committee will consider health and safety
arrangements as part of planning WI activities and events, including:
• Venue accessibility
• Emergency procedures
• Availability of first aid supplies
• Known risks associated with the activity
 
Confidentiality: Any personal or medical information shared with the committee will
be treated sensitively and handled in accordance with applicable data protection
requirements.
 
Responsibilities: The committee is responsible for:
• Maintaining reasonable first aid arrangements
• Encouraging appropriate training
• Reviewing incidents and learning from them where appropriate
Members are encouraged to:
• Make the committee aware of any relevant emergency information they wish
to share
• Carry necessary medication with them
• Seek professional medical advice where needed
 
Review of Policy
 
This policy will be reviewed annually by the committee, or sooner if required
following an incident, change in guidance, or change in committee arrangements.
Created: 28.05.2026
First review: 28.05.2027