Reminder: Safety guidance when attending demonstrations

Unity demonstrations will continue in N Ireland and elsewhere over the weekend. If you’re planning to attend any events, please do so in a safe and peaceful manner.

Demonstrations and counter demonstrations are expected to continue across towns and cities this weekend, including in Northern Ireland. This includes the Together Against Hate demonstration supported by the NI Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions in Belfast on Saturday (13).

Earlier this week, PCS issued statements addressing civil unrest and members safety, and the specific context of recent violence in Northern Ireland. PCS recognises the sensitivities involved and the impact that heightened tensions can have on communities and workplaces.

If you are planning to attend any demonstrations, PCS urges all members to do so in a peaceful and safe manner. While the right to protest is fundamental, situations can change quickly, and public disorder has the potential to put people at risk. We are also aware that incidents outside the workplace can have a direct effect on members at work, particularly where tensions spill over into intimidation, harassment, or heightened security concerns.

Safety guidance

All reps and members attending demonstrations are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the PCS Anti-Racism Action Plan (ARAF) strategy safety guidance and to review the PCS demonstration safety card in advance.

If you encounter far-right groups or individuals seeking to provoke confrontation, including those filming for social media, do not engage. Avoid escalation, prioritise your own safety, and leave the area if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Be aware of your surroundings, plan your travel in advance, and attend events with others where possible. 

PCS members working during demonstrations

For members who may be working at or near locations affected by demonstrations, PCS support is available:

  1. Report concerns: With PCS support, raise any concerns about intimidation, harassment or hate-related incidents through official Civil Service reporting channels. Ensure incidents are formally logged under equality and dignity at work policies.
  2. Challenge unacceptable behaviour: If you are targeted or threatened, PCS can support you in pursuing a grievance and in pressing your employer to take appropriate disciplinary action in line with workplace standards.
  3. Risk assessments: Ask your employer, with PCS backing, to carry out a specific risk assessment where demonstrations or far-right activity may pose a threat. Employers should put appropriate measures in place to safeguard staff.
  4. Flexible working arrangements: Where activity near workplaces creates a risk, PCS can support negotiations for temporary or longer term working from home arrangements. This approach has been successfully secured in previous situations.
  5. Employer responsibilities: PCS will continue to remind employers of their legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act to provide a safe working environment and to take proactive steps to mitigate risks arising from external threats.

Get help

PCS operates a 24-hour racial incidents helpline exclusively for members to report racism at work.

  • Have you experienced a racial incident at work?
  • Do you feel unable to contact your local union representative?

Call the 24-hour racial incident helpline: 020 7801 2678.

For any other enquiries or support, please contact: [email protected]

PCS remains committed to supporting members, promoting safety, and ensuring that workplaces remain respectful and secure for everyone.