Health and Safety Policy

Health and Safety Policy

At The Green Lion, the health, safety, and well-being of our participants, partners, staff, and local communities are our highest priorities. We are committed to delivering responsible, well-managed programs that meet high standards of safety while enabling meaningful travel and cultural exchange.

This policy outlines our approach to risk management, participant support, and safe program delivery across all destinations.

1. Our Commitment

The Green Lion is committed to:

• Providing safe and supportive travel and volunteer experiences

• Minimising risk through careful planning, local expertise, and clear procedures
• Complying with applicable local laws, regulations, and international best practices
• Working closely with sending organisations to ensure participant preparedness

Safety is embedded in every stage of our programs, from planning and arrival through to daily activities and departure.

2. Local Teams and On-Ground Support

All Green Lion programs are operated by experienced local coordinators and teams who:

• Live in or near the host communities

• Have in-depth knowledge of local conditions, customs, and risks
• Are trained to manage participant welfare and emergencies

Participants receive an in-country orientation covering safety guidelines, cultural norms, local transport, accommodation rules, and emergency procedures.

Local coordinators remain the primary point of contact throughout the program and provide 24/7 emergency support.

3. Risk Assessment and Program Design

Each destination and program undergoes ongoing and annual revision of the risk assessment, including:

• Accommodation safety and suitability

• Transport methods and travel routes
• Activity-specific risks
• Environmental and health considerations

Programs are designed to be age-appropriate and aligned with participant backgrounds. Activities are adapted where necessary to account for local conditions, weather, or safety concerns.

4. Accommodation and Transport Safety

We carefully select accommodation that prioritises:

• Focus on Nutritional food
• Cleanliness and hygiene
• Secure locations and safe access
• Appropriate facilities for participants

Transport used during programs is arranged through trusted local providers and includes private vehicles, licensed drivers, or approved public transport options where appropriate.

5. Health, Medical Care, and Insurance

Participants are required to:

• Hold valid travel insurance covering medical treatment, emergencies, and repatriation

• Declare relevant medical conditions prior to arrival

Local coordinators are familiar with nearby medical facilities and emergency services. In the event of illness or injury, participants are supported in accessing appropriate care.

6. Emergency Procedures

The Green Lion maintains clear emergency protocols for situations including illness, accidents, natural events, or security concerns.

These include:

• 24/7 emergency contact availability

• Clear escalation procedures
• Communication with sending organisations when required
• Support for participants during and after an incident

Emergency contact details are provided to all participants before arrival.

7. Participant Responsibilities

While The Green Lion provides comprehensive support, participants are expected to:

• Follow local laws, program guidelines, and coordinator instructions

• Act responsibly and respectfully toward others
• Communicate any concerns, illnesses, or incidents promptly

Unsafe or disruptive behaviour may result in removal from a program.

8. Partner Collaboration

We work closely with our partner organisations to:

• Share safety information and program expectations

• Support participant screening and preparation
• Respond effectively in the event of an incident

Clear communication and shared responsibility are central to our partnership model.

9. Continuous Review

Our Health and Safety practices are reviewed regularly and updated as needed to reflect changes in destinations, regulations, and global conditions.