Events stewarding

It is the responsibility of the event organiser to ensure that there are sufficient numbers of stewards who are adequately trained, to perform the role they are required to undertake, are aware of the geographical location and landscape of the site and who are organised within a defined management structure. Those providing security services at events undertaking licensable activities may require a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence.

Those working on a wholly voluntary basis will not require an SIA licence. It is the responsibility of the event organiser or appointed representative to hold clear briefing sessions with the stewards prior to the event.

The numbers required will be dependant upon the nature of the event and will be agreed at the Safety Advisory Group meetings. The stewarding plan will form part of the event safety management plan and gives details of the required position of each steward at a particular time at the event.

In addition the outcomes of risk assessment will also impact upon stewarding levels.

The Health Safety Executive Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds states that stewards should be fit, active, aged not less than 18, and preferably not over 55, and have the character and temperament to carry out the duties required of them.

Stewards should:

• be familiar with the type of event, layout of the site and be aware of their role as documented in the event safety plan for the event;

• have an understanding of crowd movement and issues of crowd congestion; and

• be able to communicate at all levels and at all times be identifiable by means of, for example corporate jackets, tabards or uniform

Contact

Events team, Directorate of Operations and Regulatory Services, Civic Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8QH. Phone: (0191) 2116582. Email: events@newcastle.gov.uk