Assessing risk...

Youth Group

Today’s activities

The Youth group focused today on key things to look at when running an exchange trip. The main topics we discussed were health and safety, child protection, assessing risk, supporting young people, welfare, learning, behaviour, when things go wrong, admin for a youth exchange, before- during-after. We focused on planning a trek to the mountains. First we looked at all the risks and health and safety for the journey.

Correct footwear was required, we had to be careful as there was a lot of slippery rocks and obstacles in the way, to avoid this we found a safer path, we had a leader in the front and on at the back, leader at front would warn us if there was a hazardous obstacle coming and to find a safer path, there was also water on the road which we had to be careful of, if there was a cross over/paths in directions the leader would stop and ensure group was together before choosing direction, there was also sharp plants that would hurt if anyone would slip or fall so we had to avoid that path, to avoid this we walked slowly and take time and support each other when passing.

We also had to look at cars and transport that was passing by and move to one side to let them by when we are walking on the road.

Making sure and landscapes/bridges were accessed via the correct channels, i.e not climbing or running over walls or fences but using the gates provided.

Always check when taking time to rest or sit down as there may be loose railings and also avoid leaning on unsecure fittings/fixture.

This experience for the group will help in planning any future visits especially with children when the travel to places and to ensure this happens we should follow all guidelines set and ask questions if we are ever unsure of what to do.

The group had a lot fun in delivering this topic and will be well prepared for the future.

Reaching your goal may be easy, but ensuring safety should be priority.

Shaz