Why Community Action Norfolk Has an Extreme Weather Policy

At Community Action Norfolk, the safety and wellbeing of our staff, volunteers and visitors is always our priority. That's why we have an Extreme Weather Policy, which helps us respond appropriately during periods of severe heat, snow, ice, flooding or other weather conditions that could pose a risk.

Why do we sometimes close the office?

Our office building isn't equipped with air conditioning, which means that during periods of extreme heat the temperature indoors can become uncomfortably – and potentially unsafely – high. Likewise, severe winter weather can make travelling to and from the office hazardous.

As an employer, we have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of our staff. While there is no maximum legal workplace temperature in the UK, employers are expected to assess risks and provide a safe working environment. When conditions in our office become unsuitable, allowing colleagues to work from home is one of the most effective ways we can reduce those risks.

Rather than putting our team at unnecessary risk, we may temporarily close the office and ask staff to work remotely where it is safe and practical to do so. This enables us to continue supporting communities across Norfolk while looking after the people who deliver our services.

We're still open for business

A temporary office closure doesn't mean our work stops. Our team remains fully operational and continues to deliver services, respond to enquiries and support the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector across Norfolk.

If you need to contact us while we're working remotely, you can:

Email us here or call 01362 698216 and leave a voicemail. Your message will be forwarded to the appropriate member of staff, who will get back to you as soon as possible.

Why do we post on social media?

Whenever our working arrangements change because of extreme weather, we'll let people know through our social media channels. We do this to keep our communities informed, explain any temporary changes to office access, and reassure everyone that our services continue as normal.

We know many people rely on us for support, and keeping you updated helps ensure you know the best way to contact us. Being open about these temporary arrangements also reflects our commitment to communicating clearly and responsibly with the communities we serve.

Looking after people while continuing our work

Extreme weather events are becoming more common, and many organisations are adapting the way they work to protect their people while maintaining the services they provide.

Our Extreme Weather Policy helps us strike that balance. By taking sensible precautions when conditions require it, we can continue supporting Norfolk's communities safely, responsibly and with as little disruption as possible.

We appreciate your understanding and support whenever we need to put these temporary measures in place.