What happens in emergencies (health, safety, or conflict situations)?

If you experience or witness an emergency involving health, safety, security, or a conflict situation, you should immediately inform a member of staff at reception or the staff member on duty. They will be able to assess the situation, provide support, and take any necessary action.

LHA staff are trained to respond appropriately to a wide range of situations and will guide you on the next steps. Depending on the nature of the incident, this may involve providing first aid, contacting emergency services, supporting those involved, implementing hostel safety procedures, or helping to de-escalate a conflict.

In situations where there is an immediate risk to life, serious injury, or a serious threat to safety, emergency services such as the police, ambulance service, or fire brigade may need to be contacted without delay.

Volunteers are never expected to place themselves at risk or handle serious incidents alone. Your role is to seek assistance from staff as quickly as possible and follow any instructions provided to help keep yourself and others safe.

If you are ever unsure whether a situation is an emergency, it is always better to speak to a member of staff and seek guidance rather than trying to manage the situation on your own.