Camp Bestival Recognized as One of the UK’s Safer Festivals
Camp Bestival, a family-friendly festival held at Lulworth Castle in Dorset, has been acknowledged as one of the safer events in the UK. According to a recent safety report conducted by Get Licensed, a leading authority in SIA security training, the festival ranked 27th in the country. The study evaluated several key aspects that contribute to a festival’s overall safety, including capacity management, welfare facilities, police responsiveness, and environmental conditions.
Each of these factors plays a crucial role in determining how safe an event is for its attendees. In the case of Camp Bestival, the analysis highlighted both positive elements and areas where improvements could be made. The findings offer valuable insights into how festivals can enhance their safety measures to better protect their visitors.
Key Safety Considerations
One of the main points raised in the report was the importance of adequate welfare facilities. Camp Bestival has a maximum capacity of 40,000 people, yet the study found only one welfare tent available for all attendees. This raises concerns about the ability of the event’s safeguarding teams to manage large crowds effectively. Shahzad Ali, CEO of Get Licensed, emphasized that ensuring the number of welfare tents matches the scale of attendance is essential to prevent overburdening staff and maintaining high standards of care.
The report also examined how attendees perceive the festival’s ability to handle crowd sizes. If there are frequent reports of overcrowding, this could indicate potential safety issues. It is vital for festival organizers to address these concerns proactively to ensure a positive and secure experience for all participants.
Environmental Factors and Climate Adaptation
Another critical factor considered in the study was the environmental risks associated with the location. Lulworth Castle typically experiences average temperatures of around 17°C in July, with approximately 67mm of rainfall during the same period. While these conditions may seem manageable, the report noted that climate change is causing UK summers to become increasingly hotter.
Shahzad Ali pointed out that rising temperatures can lead to health risks such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunburn. To mitigate these dangers, festivals must adapt their facilities accordingly. Installing more water stations, additional welfare tents, and shaded areas can help protect attendees from the adverse effects of extreme weather.
Police Responsiveness and Local Support
Police responsiveness was another key component of the safety evaluation. The study found that 86.6% of 999 calls in the area are answered within 10 seconds. This level of quick response time can significantly impact the perceived safety of an event. Shahzad explained that if a festival is located near local police forces, it may be considered safer due to the ability of attendees to seek assistance quickly.
Moreover, the speed at which local authorities respond to emergencies is crucial. A fast and efficient police presence can provide reassurance to festival-goers, knowing that help is readily available if needed. This aspect highlights the importance of strong community and law enforcement collaboration in ensuring the safety of large-scale events.
Conclusion
While Camp Bestival received recognition for its safety efforts, the study also identified areas where further improvements could be made. By addressing issues related to welfare facilities, environmental preparedness, and police cooperation, the festival can continue to enhance the safety and well-being of its attendees. As the climate continues to change, it is essential for event organizers to remain proactive in adapting their strategies to meet the evolving needs of their audience.
