We know from speaking to our members about the increased need for sector support and solidarity in times of division and racial hatred.
The reality is there is no ‘one-size fits all’ approach to address these concerns. The safety and security of staff, volunteers and beneficiaries will depend on the nature of your work, the physical set up of your organisation and where your charity operates.
However, here are five areas for consideration that we hope will help all charities and voluntary organisations operate safely, lawfully and with purpose.
Charities are purpose driven organisations. They deliver on a vision and mission articulated in their governing document.
Charities have an important role in bringing people and communities together, but they must ensure their response to external events is aligned to their mission and values.
Read our help and guidance on what a charity's governing document should include.
Watch our webinar on writing and amending your governing documents.
Take time to listen, support and show empathy with staff and volunteers.
Focus on relationships, enabling those in your organisation to feel valued, respected and cared for.
Book onto one of our leadership training courses.
Find out more about leading your charity from the Association of Chairs or ACEVO.
The risk of a terrorist threat in the UK is substantial, especially in the wake of recent events such as the Manchester terrorist attack of 2025. Charities are required by law to protect their staff, volunteers and beneficiaries from harm.
Risk management can feel daunting. There are simple steps to put a plan in place.
Read our help and guidance on seven steps to help trustee manage risk.
Visit Protect UK to help you better prepare your people and venue in the event of a terrorist incident.
A business continuity plan will help prepare for potential threats and ensure critical operations can continue during and after an incident.
The plan should be current, accessible, adaptable and manageable. When a crisis happens, you don’t have to react immediately. Take time to plan your internal and external communications.
Watch our webinar with Trusted Supplier Zurich on Communicating in a crisis.
Read Charity Comms' crisis communications guide.
After any incident, supporting the wellbeing of staff and volunteers is of paramount importance. Acknowledge what has happened and offer space to share experiences and feelings.
Be clear about what support you can offer staff who are particularly impacted by events. For example, an Employee Assistance Programme like the one provided by our Trusted Supplier HSF Health Plan.
Read our guidance on how to support the mental health and wellbeing of your team.
Review the Charity Commission’s guidance on Safeguarding and protecting people for charities and trustees.
We hope you find this useful. We encourage any voluntary organisation that might be worried to access our help and guidance.
Our small charity helpdesk is also available to provide you with additional information and support.
Read our statement from CEO Kate Lee OBE on the Manchester attacks.
Starting from Monday 20 October 2025, we'll be offering a safe space for members to talk openly about the safety and security challenges your organisation is facing, connect with peers who understand and explore how we can best support each other.
This is the first in a series of events designed to turn your insights into real resources, practical guidance and stronger support for charities across the sector.
We're running sessions at 12.00 on:
