Essential crisis management during civil unrest

Civil unrest across the UK caught many organisations off guard in terms of protecting their people and taking practical steps to keep running. 

From protests to riots, these situations can quickly escalate, threatening the safety of your employees and the continuity of your operations. Even if you are not immediately impacted, this guide provides practical steps to protect your people and maintain business resilience during turbulent times.

Immediate actions

High priority:

• Ensure employee safety: Establish clear communication channels for rapid updates to colleagues.
• Monitor official directives: Follow guidance from police, emergency services and other authorities and use this to inform your response strategies.
• Implement remote work: If possible, allow employees to work from home or alternative safe locations avoiding travel to or through affected areas.

Other priorities:

• Review workplace policies: Clarify attendance and compensation policies during civil unrest.
• Check insurance coverage: Understand what losses are covered in civil unrest scenarios.
• Communicate with stakeholders: Inform customers, clients, and partners about your plans.
• Offer support services: Provide access to counselling through employee assistance programs.
• Address corporate identifiers: Advise staff to avoid wearing visible company logos or IDs if targeted.

Ongoing preparedness

• Social media policy: Review and communicate guidelines on personal social media use related to protests or controversial topics.
• Inclusive messaging: Collaborate with DEI teams to ensure all communications are sensitive and inclusive.
• HR policies: Clarify the organisation's stance on employee participation in protests or potential arrests.
• Crisis management plans: Update protocols for various scenarios, including on-site emergencies and lockdowns. Consider essential supplies like food and water if a lockdown occurs.
• Travel policies: Assess the necessity of business travel to affected areas and consider temporary restrictions.
• Supply chain resilience: Reach out to key suppliers to understand their contingency plans.
• Network participation: Join local business networks for information sharing and mutual support during crises.

Long-term considerations

• Information monitoring: Regularly review trusted sources to stay informed about potential unrest and its impacts. Be wary of the potential for misinformation and disinformation.
• Risk assessment: Consider vulnerable people and ensure there are plans in place to help them evacuate safely, or to assist them to work remotely from a safe location.
• Continuity: Evaluate your facilities, supply chain and infrastructure for vulnerabilities, especially in high-risk areas.
• Threat intelligence: For high-risk organisations, consider the use of specialist providers to help monitor extremist channels on your behalf.
• Technology integration: Implement emergency notification systems and enhance remote work capabilities.
• Legal preparedness: Consult with legal experts to understand your rights and responsibilities during civil unrest.
• Scenario planning: Conduct regular tabletop exercises to test and improve your crisis response.
• Industry collaboration: Share best practices and lessons learned with others in your sector.

Conclusion

Civil unrest presents unique challenges for organisations, but with proper planning and swift action, you can protect your people and maintain organisational resilience. Review and update your crisis management strategies regularly, and don't hesitate to seek expert advice when needed.

Remember, the key to effective crisis management is preparation. Start implementing these measures today to ensure your organisation is ready for whatever challenges tomorrow may bring.

Need help creating or improving your crisis management plans? Contact us for personalised assistance and scenario-based training for your response teams.