Risk analysis

In an uncertain world it is best to be prepared for those problems that can happen when we least expect them. We recommend that each Society carries out a risk assessment and hope that the following notes will help.

1. Consider what the "risks" are: -       

          To the continuation of the society: To a successful lecture programme: To successful visits and study courses: To successful tours.

a) Risks to the continuation of the society

          Have you sufficient funds? Do you produce annual audited accounts? Do cheques require two signatures?

          Can you maintain membership levels? Can you provide a committee? Have you got a secure venue?

b) Risks to a successful lecture programme

          Is your programme secretary capable? Do you plan a programme with varied interests? Are booking forms completed properly?

          What happens if the lecturer cancels/fails to arrive? What back-up have you got for equipment? What happens if the venue booking goes wrong?

          How do you deal with emergencies at a meeting e.g. illness or fire evacuation?

c) Risks to successful visits/ study courses

          Problems with transport (no show, poor driver, poor vehicle standards). Problems with venue, not expecting group, catering etc 

          How do you deal with emergencies like illness, people cancelling at last- minute due to illness etc, non-arrival of lecturer or guide?

 d) Risks to successful tours

          How to choose a reliable, properly insured and ABTA/ATOL company? Problems with transport (delays, poor driver, poor vehicle standards)

          Problems with hotel/venues.  How do you deal with emergencies like illness, theft or complaints?

2. Produce a plan

Having listed your risks, agree a plan or policy for each. For example, do you give refunds if members cancel due to ill health? Do all the Committee know the evacuation procedure for your meeting place? Do you have a list of local lecturers you could call upon at short notice? Do you display the NADFAS insurance statement?

Risks cannot be eliminated, but having a plan can improve successful resolution and also demonstrate appropriate and responsible attitudes to counteract litigation.

Website design: Michael Jeans-Jakobsson © 2009 NADFAS SW Area Committee