Service Issues Safety Guidance For Places Of Worship
Posted on 13 May 2026
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has published updated safety and security guidance to support places of worship in keeping their communities safe and well prepared.
The refreshed guidance brings together practical advice on emergency planning, working with emergency services, and strengthening day‑to‑day safety arrangements, while maintaining the open and welcoming environments that are central to worship.
Faith settings play a vital role in communities across Nottinghamshire, often welcoming large numbers of people and hosting a variety of activities. The service is encouraging those responsible for these buildings to review their existing plans and ensure they are clear, up to date and understood by staff and volunteers.
The publication of this guidance follows the recent change in the UK national terrorism threat level to SEVERE, which indicates that an attack is considered highly likely. However, this change is precautionary in nature, and there is no intelligence to suggest an incident is imminent.
The service is emphasising that places of worship should continue to operate as normal, while taking proportionate steps to ensure they are prepared for a range of potential incidents.
The guidance highlights the importance of having clear and accessible emergency plans covering fire safety, medical incidents and wider risks. It also encourages regular training for staff and volunteers, helping to ensure that those responsible for responding to an incident feel confident in their roles.
The service is also encouraging stronger engagement with local emergency services. Early collaboration with police, fire and ambulance services can help ensure that emergency plans are suitable, understood and effective, should they ever need to be used.
While the national threat level provides important context for security planning, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding communities that there is no need for alarm. Remaining aware, having clear procedures in place, and knowing how to report concerns are key aspects of keeping people safe.
The service will continue to support places of worship across Nottinghamshire by offering advice, guidance and engagement opportunities to help them strengthen their safety arrangements.