Action Support

Volunteer roles to support actions : stewarding, well-being, protest liaison, production, outreach and more!

What is Action Support?

Actions Support 1500x600.png

In order to succeed, actions need to be planned with a surrounding web of support. ‘Support’ means rebels in low-arrest-risk roles take on responsibilities before, during and after the action, which vary according to the action design.

These can include: liaising with the police; ensuring people’s wellbeing; providing first-aid; embedding nonviolence; de-escalation; engaging in outreach with the public; marshalling/stewarding marches; drumming courageously; creating beautiful banners; supporting in the back office; turning up at police stations to support rebels - and more!

This book outlines the various Action Support responsibilities, to help you think about taking on one of these roles.

If you’re looking for guidance on an action you are planning see our Action Support Triage document or email the Action Support External Coordinator and arrange a meeting! actionsupport@extinctionrebellion.uk

The main teams within Action Support are:

Action Wellbeing - Email news signup
First Aid - Email news signup
Embedding Nonviolence / Deescalation - Email news signup
Stewarding - Email news signup
Roadtaking - Email news signup
Actions Outreach - Email news signup
Production & World Build - Email news signup
Protest Liaison
Rhythms

If you are interested in any of these roles, signup for further information

These other teams work closely with us:

Relationships (link coming soon)
Typically need to be involved when working together with other large organisations where this work is likely to affect the UK level relationship

Political Circle (link coming soon)
Typically need to be involved where there is a possible national political impact or target of the action

Media & Messaging
Typically actions work with the team appropriate according to their scale (eg local works with local M&M, regional actions work with Regional M&M team, UK Actions work with the National M&M team). See the M&M Directory for further details

How to find out where I can get involved near me

The best place to start is the Actions Map (you can enter your postcode to zoom near your location)

Action Support - High Viz colours

Different teams wear specific high-viz tabards so you can easily spot them in a crowd and find the right crew that you need.

General Steward
Lead Steward, coordinating a small team of Stewards
Special Task Steward. Designated at an event, for example could be a Radio Operator
Roadtake Crew
Wellbeing Crew
Qualified First Aid Crew
DeEscalation Crew
Protest Liaison Crew
Outreach
Legal Observers (Independent of XR). Note some other protest groups also use orange vests

Stewarding

Everything you might want to know about stewarding events, actions, marches.

Stewarding

What's it like being a Steward?

Nic-as-a-Steward.png
'I've been a steward for XR on a few rebellions, and absolutely love it - the stewards are a really welcoming team and its really fun. When I first started stewarding, I was REALLY nervous, but it's easy to get the hang of, the other stewards look after you and there is lots of guidance and training.'
Nic, XR Steward

I started stewarding in 2020 when I found I was sometimes the only person from my Local Group at a protest. I've made new friends from all over and felt part of a supportive group as well as feeling useful. I had some previous local experience which was helpful but there are plenty of training sessions and we usually buddy up.
Claire, XR Steward

What does it involve

Stewards : With a large event we need a LOT of stewards! - as a minimum 1 Steward per 100 attendees. Even small local events benefit from a few stewards. No experience needed - training provided.

Stewards help to ensure all attendees at an event are safe. On a march this would include keeping people away from traffic, supporting road closures and keeping the march together. At a static event, this would include answering questions from the public or attendees, pointing people in the right direction, or helping them find others. We give full training (online and at the event) and new stewards are buddied up with experienced ones (we usually aim to steward in pairs).

What next

So I want to be a Steward, what next?

Online Stewarding Training

Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network

Stewarding

So I want to be a Steward, what next?

Join the Telegram Chat

Join one or both the Telegram chats listed here: Steward Communications
Please don't be put off if you don't use Telegram though - you can still volunteer in person by just turning up on the day and asking for the Lead Steward (although it will be much easier to know what's planned if you Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network beforehand.

Complete the Recruitment Form

For large scale events we organise rotas to share the workload. Information on these will be published in advance via our email newsletter and on the Telegram chats. Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network with your details, especially if you want to be verified as a potential Lead Steward.

Join a Training Session

Register for an online training session, or watch a video recording

Alternatively, you will be able to attend a face to face training during events, typically 1 hour before shifts start.

Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network

Stewarding

Steward Communications

Contact Us

You can reach the Stewarding Team at Stewarding@extinctionrebellion.uk

How do we keep in touch with fellow Stewards

Before, during and after the events we use several Telegram chats for chat, queries & call-outs:

We also use more secure Signal communications for Lead Stewards. You will need to be verified by someone from a XR Team or Supporter Organisation to be added to these.

Hand Signals

These Signals are used to communicate with attendees at an event or action Hand-Signals.png

This signal is used to communicate (silently) with other stewards (try and remember to always be looking round and watching your stewarding colleagues to make sure you keep in contact)
Steward-Hand-SIgnals.png

Mic Check: when you raise your arm first to get silence then repeat "Mic Check, Mic check", the crowd repeats this "Mic Check, Mic check". Then you give your short message, the crowd repeats it. Then loop again.
Mic-Check.png

Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network

Stewarding

Stewarding Training

We have a number of Zoom sessions where we will go through various aspects of Stewarding and give you a chance to ask questions. We recommend all Stewards attend Stewards General Training, or a face to face session at an event.

We aim to run online training monthly and more frequently in the run up to big events
Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network to hear about these sessions or keep an eye on the Movement Broadcast on Telegram.

General Steward training - online

General Stewards Training Video General Stewarding Training - 30min
Stewarding a Small Action Training Video General Stewarding Training, especially for smaller actions - 20min
General Stewards Briefing Video Short 4min video of stewarding tips

We have also run the sessions listed below previously, and can organise again if they are needed - email us on stewarding@extinctionrebellion.uk for details:

Training materials, Powerpoint slide decs etc. are available if you want to run your own training sesions.

Training: Face to Face

We usually run face to face training sessions during large events, typically 1 hour before shifts start.

Top Tips Sheet

Helpful sheet if you just want to print one page, export this one as a PDF

Lead Steward Training

Lead Stewards are welcome to join any of the training sessions above and we can always add on a section at the end to cover Lead topics (its a few extra slides)

Further Training

These optional additional training modules will enhance your skills and confidence when Stewarding:

Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network

Stewarding

What to bring with you when Stewarding

Things to check before you arrive for your shift
What to bring with you
Where to store stuff

There is often nowhere secure to store anything during events. If you have small items, it's best to carry them with you. Alternatively, there are several companies that have many sites across London where you can store a bag for 24hrs (for a fee). If there are several of you together, try packing everything into one bag - you only pay once.

We are not afiliated to any of these sites and don't recomend any particular company:
Radical Storage
Stasher
Bounce
If you know of others, please let us know via email.

Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network

Stewarding

Stewarding Training Materials

The material on this page is for those planning to train others as Stewards. These training slide packs are available for you to adapt as required for your own training sessions.
Materials are constantly being developed and improved so please ensure you download the latest version before use.
If you find any broken links, or have edits or suggestions, please contact Stewarding@extinctionrebellion.uk

Stewarding Training Sessions

If you are looking to simply be trained then see Stewarding Training for a listing of available sessions to book, or watch.

Stewarding Training Materials

Note these Powerpoint presentation sshould be downloaded and shown using PowerPoint if animations and embedded videos are to work.

Powerpoint Slides for General Steward Training (Google Drive)
Powerpoint Slides for Stewarding a Small Action Training (Google Drive)
Powerpoint Slides for Stewarding a March Training (Google Drive)
Powerpoint Slides for Roadtaking Training (Google Drive)
Video of Blue Light response during Unite to Survive march, Bath Oct 2023

Zoom Images

Zoom Video Background
Zoom meeting Banner Used when a session requires registration
Zoom meeting Logo Used when a session requires registration

Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network

Stewarding

On the day - 12 Stewarding Tips

If you're new to Stewarding, why not print this page of top tips and bring it with you to your first action?

Stewards on a protest are welcomed, and we want to be professional too.

Wear hi-vis, comfortable shoes, clothing in layers & all-weather hat (no umbrellas) Bring sunscreen, electricians tape, earplugs, water, pen & paper, phone. Food, medication, anything you may need. in a backpack to keep both hands free & give the distinctive hump under the tabard. see What to bring with you when Stewarding for a complete list

  1. Stewards' primary task is to keep protesters and passers by safe (eg from traffic)
  2. Don't talk to the police or security, never repeat or text anything you might hear them say, nor rumours.
  3. If asked (e.g. how long, what else): you don't know, you are here to keep people safe, you are not part of the protest.
  4. Stay calm, don’t get into arguments, take a deep breath and de-escalate.
  5. To communicate quickly to a crowd, use Mic check e.g. to get people to sit down or leave.
  6. Stewards work in pairs - e.g.if there is an accident, one stays with the injured, the other gets help.
  7. Ask the lead steward anything you don't know, but find out where the nearest toilets are yourself.
  8. Do not point or gesture at people who might be helping at the protest - you may be being filmed so you don't want to be identifying people.
  9. Safeguarding: stay in pairs, do not give unclaimed children to random people, leave reuniting to the authorities.
  10. On a march slow the front to the slowest participant, don't allow gaps to widen, send banner pairs to hold intersections.
  11. On a static protest keep a path clear on the pavement for passers by and keep protesters off the road unless it is closed to traffic.
  12. Ask and suggest, don't order: people don't have to obey you.

Watch the 4min video of these tips Stewards Briefing Video

Signup to be a Steward on XR Action Network

Roadtaking

Crew to ensure that marches operate smoothly by keeping traffic away from the march. Sometimes used at the start of static events

Roadtaking

What's it like doing Roadtaking

Roadtake team (yellow High viz) with a lead Steward (Pink high-viz) holding a roadtake banner outside Farnborough Airport.

Roadtake teams usually operate as a small team with one lead (often a Lead Steward). Where available we wear yellow high-viz jackets. We work closely with Stewards who support the Roadtake teams.

Roadtaking involves stepping into the road when it is safe to do so (for example when traffic lights are red), normally holding a banner, to stop traffic entering a march or static protest site in order to keep participants safe.

We operate closely with Protest Liaison team to determine what is being covered by the Police or Authorities and what we will be doing. Roadtake teams react to circumstances, changing plans when needed to keep participants safe. The Lead Steward must always check what the police are prepared to do. It takes only 3 police to control a whole cross-road. If they are prepared to do that, let them. If they’re not, then we must jump in. 

We do not direct or control traffic, that is a Police role. However, we do put physical barriers in place (banners) and explain to drivers what is happening.

Roadtaking is a physical mobile role. It is best to avoid carrying too much with you since at times you will need to move at pace from the back to the front of the march or between roadtake positions.

Public Open Roadtake Crew Telegram chat
Signup as Roadtake Crew

Roadtaking

Roadtaking Scenarios

Banners

We have different size banners for different roads (5m, 8m typical).
Place banners where traffic naturally stops (Stop signs, traffic lights, pedestrian crossings).
Always have banner message facing out to the traffic that is being blocked.

Banner Placement Timing

Never Go Out Too early
Roadtake team move on once march itself is blocking intersection
Releasing Roadtakes
Gaps in Marches

Example Road Junction scenarios

These animations show a march interacting with traffic and banner teams moving into position and then releasing and moving on. It assumes other Stewards or banner teams will hold junctions as the march passes by.

Crossroads - Marching left


Turning Left, simplest scenario
One banner to protect march as it turns
Banner out as march arrives
Blocks traffic from the right
And traffic from the top trying to turn (their right)
All other traffic keeps moving
Once march has passed, then banner leapfrogs on to next junction

Crossroads - Marching straight across


Straight on, slightly more complex
Three banners (or one 5m, one 8m)
Banner out as march arrives
Blocks traffic from the right
And traffic from the top trying to turn (their right)
Second banner blocks traffic from the left
Once march has passed, then banner leapfrogs on to next junction

Crossroads - Marching right


Turning Right, complex scenario
Three banners to protect march as it turns
Banner out as march arrives
Blocks traffic from the right
Second banner blocks traffic from top
Third banner blocks traffic from the left
Only limited traffic keeps moving
Once march has passed, then banner leapfrogs on to next junction

Minor road - Marching left at major road junction


Turning Left, simplest scenario
One banner to protect march as it turns
Banner out as march arrives
Blocks traffic from the right
All other traffic keeps moving
Once march has passed, then banner leapfrogs on to next junction

Minor road - Marching right at major road junction


Turning right, more complex scenario
Two banners to protect march as it turns
Banner out as march arrives
Block traffic from the right
Block traffic from left
No traffic keeps moving
Once march has passed, then banner leapfrogs on to next junction

Side roads - Marching past junctions on left and right


Passing side roads
Basically, block roads just before march arrives
Banners out as march arrives
Note how we only protect the side of road that march is on
All other traffic keeps moving
Once march has passed, then banner leapfrogs on to next junction

Narrow (one-way) streets


Most complex scenario – we try and avoid routes like this
Needs signalling to traffic that is held up that march is approaching as drivers (and march coordinators and roadtake crews) cannot see round corners
Roads blocked for a long time as we don’t want traffic to meet march head on down a side street, so these routes often need more deescalation
Once march has passed, then open up the side roads if possible
Junction with main road is as we have seen in examples above

Roundabout - Marching right


Roundabout, turning right for clarity
Banners to block each entrance so that roundabout doesn’t become clogged and block march
Banner out as march arrives
Blocks traffic from the right
Then other junctions
As march arrives shift right banner
Release banners as march passes each road

Roadtaking

What to bring with you when Roadtaking

For general points see What to bring with you when Stewarding

Especially:

Note that Roadtaking is a physical mobile role. It is best to avoid carrying too much with you since at times you will need to move at pace; for example, to move from the back to the front of the march or between roadtake positions.

Roadtaking

Roadtaking Training

We have a number of Zoom sessions where we will go through various aspects of Roadtaking and give you a chance to ask questions. We recommend all Roadtake crew also attend Stewards General Training, or a face to face session at an event.

We aim to run online training monthly and more frequently in the run up to big events
Signup to be a Roadtake Crew on XR Action Network to hear about these sessions or keep an eye on the Movement Broadcast on Telegram.

Roadtaking Training - online

Roadtaking Training Video - 35min (version includes banner placement animations and quiz)
Roadtaking Training Video - 40min (version includes Upgrade Democracy Briefing at the end)

Training materials, Powerpoint slide decs etc. are available if you want to run your own training sessions.

Roadtaking

Planning Roadtaking

See section on Planning & Stewarding a March

Roadtaking

Roadtaking Training Materials

The material on this page is for those planning to train others as Roadtake Crew. These training slide packs are available for you to adapt as required for your own training sessions.
Materials are constantly being developed and improved so please ensure you download the latest version before use.
If you find any broken links, or have edits or suggestions, please contact Stewarding@extinctionrebellion.uk

Roadtaking Training Sessions

If you are looking to simply be trained then see Roadtaking Training for a listing of available sessions to book, or watch.

Roadtaking Training Materials

Note these Powerpoint presentation sshould be downloaded and shown using PowerPoint if animations and embedded videos are to work.
Powerpoint Slides for Roadtaking Training (Google Drive)
Video of Blue Light response during Unite to Survive march, Bath Oct 2023

Stewards Roadtaking Google Drive folder with multiple videos and pivot animator files used to create the videos of various roadatking scenarios

Action Wellbeing

Action Wellbeing supports the physical and emotional wellbeing of everyone involved in XR actions

Action Wellbeing

What is Action Wellbeing?

Action Wellbeing 1500x600.png

Action Wellbeing supports the physical and emotional wellbeing of everyone involved in XR actions. Look out for us in our blue hi-vis. In our teams we also have qualified First Aiders who wear green tabards.

Action Wellbeing provide water, hand warmers and snacks (chocolate!), as well as a listening ear and a friendly smile. Rebels come to us for all sorts of things, including: information on the nearest toilets, rain protection, conversation, blankets and pillows, warm tea, songs and chants, support during arrests and countless other useful things!

Designated First Aiders are typically needed when:

Wellbeing is typically needed when:

Wellbeing is essential for actions that include lock-ons, glue-ons, or occupation.

Contact us wellbeing+awb@extinctionrebellion.uk.

Action Wellbeing

What's involved in being Wellbeing Crew?

These are guidelines for what to expect once you have signed up as an Action Wellbeing Supporter. It can also serve as a set of guidelines for Wellbeing coordinators.

Before the Action

Once you have signed up for Action Wellbeing role you will be contacted by an Action Wellbeing Coordinator who will be able to link you up with other Action Wellbeing Supporters you will be working with. We recommend choosing an Anchor at this point to help build a support network in preparation for the action and continuing long after. An Anchor is a point of stability during the tumult of an action and offers check-ins as needed by rebels on the ground. They might be someone who can’t come to the action or wants to support from a distance, thus conserving their energies especially for pre- and post-action support.

There will be opportunities for training and ongoing communications so by the time we are on the street we feel prepared, supported and connected.

In this pre-action period we will also arrange a debrief for 1 - 2 weeks after the action. There will be a named person, possibly a Wellbeing Anchor who will make sure this happens. It would be lovely if it can be face to face but of course this is not always possible and when it isn’t zoom calls will be arranged.

Preparation:

Actions can be stressful situations to enter into and we may not always know what’s going to happen ahead of time. Some questions we might ask ourselves and those around us may be:

It is also a good idea to use the Pre-action and arrest preparation guidelines.

Contact:

You will be added to a group chat for the for the action, which will allow effective communication on the day. Apps used are SIGNAL, WHATSAPP or TELEGRAM. If you don’t have a smart phone, ensure you have the contact number for the Wellbeing Team Coordinator.

Meeting up:

The Wellbeing Team Coordinator will be in touch with you the day before to inform you of the meeting point and time.

On the day...

What to bring:
What to wear:

Prioritise being comfortable, warm and dry. If you wish to, go smart casual - this may help our portrayal in the media and support the image of an inclusive movement. Keep your XR banners and clothing for when you arrive, it’s important that we don’t stand out too much when travelling to the actions.

Wellbeing packs:

Each pair will be given a backpack that will have useful things, e.g snacks, water and survival blankets in it. You will also be given bust cards, which have solicitors number on them.

Being identifiable:

We will all wear blue high-viz tabbards to be identifiable as the wellbeing team. The first aiders will have green first aid tabbards on.

Meeting up:

When we meet up for we will:

Buddying up:

You will have a buddy, who you will stay with or know the exact whereabouts of at all times during the action. If you have been involved in the planning and preparation you will hopefully already have a buddy but if not it will be arranged during the morning briefing. Action Wellbeing Supporters help to keep energy levels high, keep an eye on vulnerable participants, generally ensuring the physical and emotional wellbeing of anybody who is taking part in the action.

There will be time for any questions. Then we will then head to where the actions are happening with our buddies.

During the Action

At the action there will be:

Affinity Groups:

Some of the people taking action will be organised into affinity groups (small groups of people who know each other well enough to take direct action together). Some affinity groups will have a wellbeing coordinator. You and your buddy will be there to provide extra support, encouragement and guidance to these wellbeing coordinators.

There will also be:

Mostly, those who are not part of an affinity group and members of the public who have just joined. It is the role of the wellbeing supporter to keep an eye on the wellbeing of everyone at the action.

What you should do as an Action Wellbeing Supporter:


Help the rebel to return to a positive place after what could be difficult questions.

In case of...

After the Action:

Check out:

We will gather again immediately after the action to check out, and handover if another team is coming on shift. This serves as a mini debrief, but is not an alternative to a full debrief.

Things to think about during check out:

Arrange to check in with your buddy over the next few days and attend the debrief (which will have already been arranged for 1-2 weeks after the action)

Welcome home gathering:

Gather with your affinity group or others you were in action with to connect, share stories and celebrate.

Debrief:

Debriefs are an important part of post action care and can often be forgotten about in the business of an action. That is why we recommend that all debriefs are booked in before the action starts. Some of the main reasons for debriefing are:

Take a look at the Debrief Template. This can be adapted and simplified. Pick the bits that work for you.

After this debrief we recommend keeping an eye out for or organising Ongoing Talking Circles/Reflective Spaces to help stay connected.

Action Wellbeing

Access and Inclusion in Action Wellbeing

In XR we want to make our events as inclusive and accesible as possible and not all of access needs are obvious. Certainly physical disabilities are easy to recognise, whereas mental health and non-visible disabilities like deafness and poor sight are often not so easy to recognise.

It is important that we, in Action Support roles, demonstrate an awareness that rebels may find certain situations uncomfortable (noise, crowds, distances to cover, sight, hearing, etc.). We need to know the location of accessible routes between locations, toilets and other services. We can offer to guide someone from a transport hub, or push a wheelchair for example.

An awareness of and a demonstration of that awareness is typically needed when:

Contact us: xr.inclusion@protonmail.com

Action Wellbeing

First Aid within Action Wellbeing

Whilts we encourage all in Action Support roles to have a basic awareness of First Aid, our designated First Aiders are all trained and certificated to the Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work, or its equivalent. Since such training is expensive, we aim to recruit First Aiders who are already certificated.

Our First Aiders will wear Green First Aid Tabbards. Usually our First Aiders and Welbeing crew support actions in Buddy Pairs together.

For multi-day actions, we organise our Wellbeing and First Aid crew using an On-Line Rota, so that each member can select the most appropriate times that they can contribute their support. This helps to balance out attendance and ensures that we have cover for all the individual activities on each day. In between major actions, we generally keep in contact with our First Aider pool, using our Telegram chat channel. But during actions, we use Signal, which is a more secure platform.

Prior to bigger UK based actions, we may need to run some First Aid Training sessions, to remind our crew how we "work on the street". This lets us talk about what issues can present themselves during actions - possibly with greater emphasis on the emotional needs of the rebels we'll be looking after, rather than their physical needs. This can be particularly important where the action may result in multiple arrests.

If you are already certificated, and wish to join our First Aid crew, please join us on telegram here: First Aid Chat channel

If you have any queries regarding your certification, contact us on: wellbeing+fa@extinctionrebellion.uk

Action Wellbeing

Ways to stay Grounded and Connected during an Action

Check-ins

We want to develop resilience and wellbeing through introspection and deepening our support networks (for arrestables and non-arrestables). Regularly checking in with each other during actions can help us to:

Self soothing techniques

Practice these techniques long before the action so become second nature and readily available when you need them in times of stress.

Action Wellbeing

Action Wellbeing Practice Scenarios

Role plays and discussion to practise with your affinity group, wellbeing team, friends, anyone!

Specific Action Visioning

Spend some time in a small group thinking about the action you are about to take. Discuss the type of action it is, where it is, the size of it and any other details you can think of specific to that action. Start to come up with some example scenarios of what you might come across. You may decide to role play these or simply talk about them and start to get a sense of what it might look and feel like in that situation and what the Action Wellbeing needs might be?

Wellbeing Supporter Role Plays

Applied Active Listening

Get into groups of 3-4. Do this by lining up roughly in terms of experience of activism, been arrested for loads of different actions at various times at one end of the room. Never done anything like this in their lives at the other. Make up the groups of 3-4 people so that there is a variety of experience levels in the groups. In all the scenarios ask the Wellbeing person to try and practise active listening with the person taking direct action in order to support them.

Active Listening tips:

Supporting someone being cut out of a lock on

1-2 Police, 1 rebel locked on, 1 WB person.

Ask the rebel to lie down. The police person should be sat over/ next to the protector, leaning over them as if cutting off an arm lock. Imagine the machinery and kit needed to be cutting someone out of an arm lock. It is loud, and invasive. The police can be asking questions. The wellbeing person is to support the rebel through that experience.

Supporting someone being criticised by a member of the public

1 Angry Driver, 1 rebel, 1 WB person.

The rebel is standing within conversation range of an angry driver who is hanging out of their car window, the rebel can choose whether or not to engage with the driver. The angry driver can be shouting, may be offensive. Possible things to say, ‘get a job’ ‘this is hitting the wrong people I’m just trying to get to work’ ‘I’m going to lose my job because of you’ ‘my kids are waiting at the school gate and are late because of you’ Be imaginative, and don’t be afraid to be mean, it will help with the practise. The wellbeing person is to support the rebel through that experience.

Supporting someone who is talking to police liaison

1-2 Police Liaison, 1 Attendee (may not be doing something arrestable, 1 WB person.

The attendee has had no NVDA training or briefing and no prior experience with the police. The police liaison are really friendly and having a wee chat. WB person is to support the attendee.

Supporting someone who is getting arrested by the police

1-2 Police, 1 rebel, 1 WB person.

Start with the arrest, putting on of handcuffs, ask first but can get physical. The police may try to move the person away from the WB supporter. WB person is to support the attendee. Come back together for a debrief. Talk about the scenario and things that came up.

Decision Making Exercise

In groups of 5-10, go through one of these scenarios and respond within 90 seconds:

Coordination:

Ask a co-ordinator from each group to come forward and get a task. (If the co-ordinators are predominantly male, name that to the whole group. Mention that in deciding who will coordinate and in making the decision to put yourself forward or not ask if your first response is more to do with capability or the way you have been socialised in our current society. Thank those coordinators for stepping forward and ask for 2 different coordinators to come up)

Give them this task: ’you have just been messaged with info that 2 swarming affinity groups have gone off and will be doing something arrestable nearby. One has just left and can be seen leaving down a side street. The other cannot be seen and there is no info on where they are other than ‘nearby’. The group of WB people you are with are currently looking after a group of vulnerable arrestables e.g. younger people or older people or members of the disabilities network.

Go back to your well-being people and decide who goes where, this is time sensitive as people are likely to be arrested quickly once they start their swarming activities. Time 90s seconds as it is the amount of time they will have before the affinity group disappears from sight. Debrief, did you make a decision? Did you listen to each other? Did anyone not feel listened to? Who was loudest/quietest?

Swarming:

Before doing this decide which 2 people in the group will represent WB people.

‘You’ve been swarming all day, and come off the road to let the first cars through. During this moment a car on the other side of the road overheats and goes on fire, blowing huge amounts of smoke everywhere. You are a bit spread out and can only speak to the 3 people closest to you. Do you go back on the road as planned at the next light?

Priorities:

Split into smaller groups of 3-4

You are standing together at the first aid point giving out tea. Someone is brought to the point having just fainted. At the same time you see the police starting to arrest people who had been blocking a road at one end, there are WB people there but the arrests look like they may need backup. At the same time a parent who has lost a child comes over in distress, looking for help. At the same time you receive a message that some of the march is leaving and will need WB people to go with it. You should always be within eyesight/earshot of your buddy.

Decide who sees to what in this situation. How do you organise and support?

Notice, with no judgement, just noticing.

Come back together for a debrief.

Action Wellbeing

Useful Tools & Templates

More Resources for Action Wellbeing volunteers

PDF Wellbeing Handbook- a deeper guide into the details promoting wellbeing in our rebels on an ongoing basic, as well as the details of organising Action Wellbeing for a large action.

Action Wellbeing Practice Scenarios – to role play with your Affinity Group, Wellbeing Team or other Rebels

Pre Action and Arrest Preparation- Emotional and practical preparation for action (and arrest)

Kit List – some suggestions for your Wellbeing Kit

How to debrief – please take inspiration and use what is useful to you

The Regenerative Action Cycle

regen cycle.PNG

Production & World Build

Production & World Build focuses on logistical and hands-on work and takes care of the practical and technical sides of events.

Production & World Build

What do the Production teams do?

Production 1500x600 ant.png

Production & World Build focuses on logistical and hands-on work and takes care of the practical and technical sides of rebellion. In short: we amplify actions!

We make sure to provide the equipment needed to intensify any action. This involves sourcing, delivering and operating kit and training crews to work both behind the scenes and on the ground.

We consist of six main teams, Site Design and Build, Sound and Power, Logistics, Sustenance, Sanitation and Waste and Accommodation.

See the next pages for more detailed information on each group, checklists for running your own Action, Protest or Rebellion, and information on how to connect with or get involved in these teams.

Contact Us: production@extinctionrebellion.uk

Production & World Build

How to Request Production Support

If you require support or advice from Production Logistics, Site Design and Build, Sound & Power, Sustenance, Sanitation and Waste or Accomodation your request will need to come through Production World Build.

Please contact us via the email: production@extinctionrebellion.uk

We just have two golden rules….

ONE POINT OF CONTACT - please nominate one person to talk to us about production requests. To avoid any confusion of information or mixed messaging all communication will go through your nominated point of contact.

ADVANCE WARNING - Please give us as much notice as possible. You don’t need to have all of the information and detail but we are much more likely to be able to help the sooner we can get the date in the diary.

Please refer to the info and questions below, these will be applicable both if you know you need support or if you’re not sure what support is on offer.

NB. If your action is not an XR action there may be a small fee attached to various services in order to cover the time and expenses of our volunteers. We can provide more details when you contact us.

Does your action require amplified sound?

If the answer is YES you can ask for support from Sound and Power.
Before contacting please think through your responses to the following:

Does your action involve using kit from the warehouse or XR's van?

If the answer is YES you can ask for support from Production Logistics.
Before contacting please think through your responses to the following:

Does your action involve feeding people?

If the answer is YES you can ask for support from Sustenance.
Before contacting please think through your responses to the following:

Does your action need access to water / toilets / waste disposal?

If the answer is YES you can ask for support from Sanitation and Waste.
Before contacting please think through your responses to the following:

Does your action have a physical aspect which needs designing and setting up?

If the answer is YES you can ask for support from Site Design and Build.
Before contacting please think through your responses to the following:

Does your action require accomodation for people?

If the answer is YES you can ask for support from Accommodation.
Before contacting please think through your responses to the following:

Production & World Build

Sound & Power

What is it?

Providing mobile PAs, sound systems, pop-up stages and solar-power set-ups; essentially bringing the vibes to any action! The Sound and Power team have kit stored in the central warehouse to provide amplification of any sort to your action.

What skills or training do I need?

You don’t need any specific skills or knowledge to join the team as all training can be given. Sound and Power run training courses to equip people with the knowledge and skills needed. In particular training can be given for people interested in running the cycle rickshaws which amplify sound at many London marches.

Help and Support for Sound and Power

If you have any questions about site Sound and Power please contact the team at: production@extinctionrebellion.uk we are happy to help via email, arrange a chat or zoom meeting or lend support as needed.

Join the Sound and Power Team

We are always looking for new members to join our friendly team. Sign-up for email newsletter here.

We are spread across London and the Regions & Nations and are keen to connect Sound and Power crews across the UK. Email production@extinctionrebellion.uk to get involved from your area.

Join the Rickshaw Crew.

If you would like to join the rickshaw crew to support protests and actions in London by providing mobile amplification please join this signal group. No prior skill necessary, all training can be given.

Production & World Build

Logistics

Logistics: Looking after the safe handling, transport and storage of XR’s amazing action kit and equipment; literally bringing all the toys needed for any actions.

Typically required when you or any team involved in the action has kit or assets to move around. Logistics coordinates the flow of kit to and from site, so this involves knowing what is coming, where it’s coming from, how it’s getting to site, where it needs to be and when, when it needs taking away and where it’s going to.

A team of volunteers is needed to make this happen and organising and managing these teams is a big part of logistics too. Logistics works with lorry, van, or car drivers, rickshaw or cargo bike riders, volunteers on foot loading and unloading, and shifting kit around by hand or with trolleys.

Check List for Logistics for a specific Action:

Warehouse Information

A Layout of the main warehouse and lists of what is held there, plus other UK locations in this spreadsheet

Help and Support for Logistics

If you have any questions about logistics please contact the production team at: production@extinctionrebellion.uk We are happy to help via email, arrange a chat or zoom meeting or lend support as needed. The production team manage the Warehouse in London which has kit available for use on actions, and subject to availability the production van is also available for use on XR Actions.

Join the Logistics Team

We are always looking for new members to join our friendly team. We are spread across London and the regions & nations, and are keen to build a production network across the UK. When the time comes for the next big rebellion we want to connect production crews across the UK to work together on a decentralised plan involving all regions.

Sign-up here to get involved or connect up with others from your area.

Production & World Build

Site Design & Build

What do we do?

We are responsible for the design and build of sites, spaces, occupations and the different elements within those spaces, i.e. Outreach Hubs, Stages, Creative Structures etc.

This work is typically undertaken by this team for larger actions or where significant public outreach is planned. However all actions should consider elements of design in their planning.

What is it?
Every Action, Protest or Rebellion takes place on a site which has been chosen according to various criteria. If the Action is aimed at a specific individual / company / business this more than likely determines the site, but if your Action focus is broader the site will be chosen according to criteria identified by your Action Planners.

The Site Design and Build team will work with these criteria to design the various elements of the site to maximum effect, and then with a team of volunteers execute the build and break of the site. Site Design and Build is particularly important for larger outward facing rebellions or protests.

If I want to do Site Design and Build for a specific Action what skills or training do I need?

No specific training is needed but it’s helpful to be able to imagine spaces and be able to relate this to the experience you might have in a given space.

Each Action you are involved with will give you more experience of what works best in a given situation. Site Design and Build work closely with the creative team particularly with regard to flags, banners and site decoration.

Check List for Site Design and Build for a specific Action

Help and Support for Site Design and Build

If you have any questions about Site Design and Build please contact the production team at: production@extinctionrebellion.uk
We are happy to help via email, arrange a chat or zoom meeting or lend support as needed.

Join the Site Design and Build Team

We are always looking for new members to join our friendly team. We are spread across London and the regions & nations and are keen to build a production network across the UK. When the time comes for the next big rebellion we want to connect production crews across the UK to work together on a decentralised plan involving all regions. Signup here to get involved or connect up from your area.

Production & World Build

Sustenance

Sustenance: Making sure there’s systems, crew and equipment in place to feed hungry rebels so they can go on rebelling!

If I want to do Sustenance for a specific Action what skills or training do I need?

Some experience in food preparation and a basic knowledge of food hygiene would be ideal but is not essential. If someone in your team has these skills there is plenty of room for others to volunteer alongside.

Check List for providing Sustenance for a specific action…

Providing Sustenance without a kitchen or dedicated team

If it its possible or appropriate to have a full sustenance team, ask people to bring extra food or drink to share with others. Things like - vegan pasties, biscuits, dried apricots, energy balls, crisps, nuts and roasted seeds are great nutritious options. You should aim to serve plant based food, with minimal allergy restrictions. Please note your ingredients so if you befriend anyone with allergies, they can check!

Help and Support with Sustenance

If you have any questions about Sustenance please contact the production team at: production@extinctionrebellion.uk. We are happy to help via email, arrange a chat or zoom meeting or lend support as needed.

Join the Sustenance Team

We are always looking for new members to join our friendly team. We are spread across London and the regions & nations and are keen to build a sustenance network across the UK. When the time comes for the next big rebellion we want to connect production world build crews across the UK to work together on a decentralised plan involving all regions. Sign-up here to get involved or connect up from your area.

Production & World Build

Toilets, Sanitation and Waste

What is it?

Shits and giggles! Seriously, Sanitation and Waste may not have the most glamorous name but it’s a vital part of any Rebellion and often has a great team of people who have as much of a laugh as anyone else, and are always hugely appreciated by everyone.

The Sanitation and Waste team will ensure that everyone has access to a toilet, to safe drinking water, and that the site is left in as pristine a condition as it was found - or often better.

If I want to do Sanitation and Waste for a specific Action what skills or training do I need?

No specific skills or training are needed.

Check List for Sanitation and Waste for a specific Action:

Help and Support

If you have any questions about Sanitation and Waste please contact the production team at: production@extinctionrebellion.uk. We are happy to help via email, arrange a chat or zoom meeting or lend support as needed.

Join the Sanitation and Waste Team

We are always looking for new members to join our friendly team. We are spread across London and the regions & nations and are keen to build a production network across the UK. When the time comes for the next big rebellion we want to connect production world build crews across the UK to work together on a decentralised plan involving all regions. Sign-up here to get involved or connect up from your area.

Production & World Build

Accommodation

Working on providing indoor accommodation for groups or individuals and setting up and running protest camps. Edited_Campsite_2022-(1).jpg

The Accommodation Team work hard to help everyone find a place to stay for major events (usually rebellions in London).

We aim to provide a safe space for anyone in need; people who otherwise would not be able to come to London and places where rebels can rest and regenerate after a long day’s protest.

The number of camps and indoor accommodation organised depends on the number of rebels registering. Managing accomodation needs extensive planning, as it will involve infrastructure, essentials, and preparing to be camping in more than one park. Please see volunteering roles below.

Camping

Campsite specific locations are not normally released until just before we open them. This is to avoid unwanted attention from the public. We aim to cooperate with local communites as far as possible - if you live in London and there is a community area possibly suitable for camping near you, please let us know.

Camping in London at Rebellions

Join the London Campers Community Telegram Group for updates and to communicate with other potential campers.

Managing the camp(s) will be a daunting task. We need campers to volunteer at least a few hours help - we are all crew! Please join the London Campers Volunteer Chat, where you can connect to other volunteers.

Camping in public spaces in London is illegal, however XRUK liaises with local authorities and the Met Police to ensure camps are safe. Locations will only be released once the local authorities have been contacted approximately 7 days before, at which point they are more likely to be supportive.

Contact the Accommodation Team by email if you have any questions: xr.accommodation@proton.me

Indoor Accommodation

We aim to secure as many indoor spaces as possible, such as church halls, mosques, community centres, warehouses and sports halls.

commuUnityHome

In addition, there is comUnityHome accommodation.

CommUnityHome is an online marketplace for shelter that connects hosts with campaigners needing a bed. By... Organising and Unifying people around a compassionate circular economic structure. Identifying the harm done by those people, groups and communities in creating wealth and its ongoing accumulation who have a significant influence over whether we can build an economy that is regenerative and redistributive. Lighting the spark for revolutionary, systemic and equitable transformation.

If you have a spare bed to share - register as a host.
If you need accommodation, register as a guest an then make a booking.

For details on how it works see here.

Volunteering

To volunteer to help out with any of these roles please contact the Accommodation Team.
All necessary information, guidance and assistance needed to take part will be provided.

Check back here or check the Rebellion Broadcast for the latest info!

Production & World Build

Creating Amenities & Sustenance Maps

Producing maps using Google MyMaps mean that you can share the editing workload and then publish a public view for participants to use. Google Help on using the tool.

Below are some examples.

The Big One Rebellion

The Big One Google MyMap
Note the use of layers for the different days as well as fixed infrastructure

March for Biodiversity

The Big One for Biodiversity V2 Google MyMap
Note the use of areas to show meeting zones at the start of the march

People Pickets

Animals Peoples Pickets Google MyMap
Note use of icons to allow people to find specific pickets - numbers might have been easier

Programming and Stage Management

Programming involves the organsiation, scheduling and booking performers for any kind of amplified 'stage'.

UK Programming team

We provide support for major events (e.g The Big One, Restore Nature Now). If you want to get involved in coordination of this work or as someone with the skills to volunteer as an 'MC' to host the event.

Contact us on our mattermost reception or by emailing programming.XR@proton.me

Programming at a local action/event

You may want to put together a programming/stage team if you are running a mic for speeches and other amplified performances as part of a march/occupation/protest event.

The team would do the following:

Guidance for Stage Programmers

Here is a fabulous Guide for Stage Programmers explaining what an event programmming team does, all the people you might need to get involved and various templates for organising and contacting performers and crew.

More Resources

On the Arts shelf is a book about Music and Performance to help you connect with all kinds of artists from spoken work to music to more theatrical groups.

Embedding Nonviolence / Deescalation

Working to defuse tense situations

Embedding Nonviolence / Deescalation

What does the Embedding nonviolence / Deescalation team do?

Nonviolent action is about confrontation. By acting, we engage in conflict with others, intervening in their daily lives and disrupting them. This raises tension, which can increase the risk that somebody gets hurt. Nonviolent communication grants us the ability to engage with other people without causing them unintentional harm. It invites us to move away from notions of blame and judgement, to foster a quality of connection rooted in empathy.

In the context of a rebellious action, we can use this method of communication to manage tension during a confrontation between parties on the street. This can involve members of the public, police or protesters. By intervening in hostile encounters we may be able to recognise feelings of alienation and agitation and help them transform into solidarity and optimism.

We can provide training and wear white hi-vis on the ground.

A team focusing on Embedding Non-Violence & De-escalation is typically needed for longer actions, or when potential conflict situations are likely.

Contact us: xrnonviolence@gmail.com

Embedding Nonviolence / Deescalation

What is Nonviolent Direct Action / Communication?

What is Nonviolence?

Nonviolence works because it inspires, builds trust and opens doors for large numbers of people to get involved and express themselves. It also models the world we want to live in by committing to causing no harm.

Beyond blame and judgement, nonviolence recognizes that all of us are part of this system and that we live interdependently (what happens to you affects me and vice versa) and all of our futures are at stake.

Some core elements of nonviolence are:

”Nonviolence is the courage to speak truth with love…and love is the full radical acceptance of the humanity of every person.” - Miki Kashtan

What is Nonviolent Direct Action?

Nonviolent Direct Action (NVDA) is a strategy of organising in groups to put your bodies in direct contact with or to directly oppose a force that you see as destructive or causing harm. NVDA strategies as we know them now developed out of the Nonviolent campaigns to end British rule of India, most commonly associated with Gandhi, and in the struggle for Civil Rights in the US in the 50s and 60s, most commonly associated with Dr. Martin Luther King.

What is Nonviolent Communication?

Nonviolent communication (NVC) is another expression of Nonviolence. NVC was developed by Marshall Rosenberg who drew on the humanistic psychology of Carl Rogers and the nonviolence of Gandhi and Martin Luther King, to develop the tools to approach actions and organising in a way that includes your own needs, while considering others' and the needs of the wider environment, so that unintentional harm is more likely to be avoided.

Some core elements of NVC are:

Embedding Nonviolence / Deescalation

BREATHE: De-Escalation Skills

The acronym below is a simple, five-step process that may support you to stay self-connected and in your intention to connect with the other, including in tense situations. It is adapted from the principles of Non Violent Communication explained on the previous page.

NVC De-Escalation Step by Step

1. Breathe. Ground. Notice your sources of support.

High-intensity and conflictual moments can be extremely challenging. We are hard-wired to fight, flight or freeze during them. And if we wish to remain calm, self-connected and able to focus on connecting with the other, we need both preparation and support. The idea of this first step then is preparatory. Before you begin your ‘work’ as a de-escalator, between each moment you are active, whenever you have a second to replenish - breathe. Ground yourself. Connect to the fact that life is ongoing no matter what is happening in this present moment. Also: look around and name what support you have available; simply doing so can give you a sense of safety, solidarity, stability.

2. Remember The Humanity of All

A commitment to nonviolence begins from the premise that all of us matter. It recognises that we are all fundamentally similar. It also holds that none of us is intrinsically ‘bad’, even when and if we do things that are painful for others. A critical starting point for practicing nonviolence, therefore, is to connect to the humanity of all. We can do this by attempting to put ourselves in another person’s shoes. In the context of a protest, imagine yourself as a frustrated commuter, a policeman, or an angry demonstrator. What are you feeling? Why? Sink as deeply as you can into what it must feel like to be that person, how you would feel if you were them. Judgements and evaluations of the ‘rightness’, ‘wrongness’ or ‘deservingness’ of the other will block our compassion for them; imagining ourselves as them can help to melt those judgements away.

3. Empathy Before Education

When people are upset, empathy can be supportive. They don’t want to be told that they’ll be OK, that this isn’t a big deal, that you’ve had it worse or have an answer for them. They also don’t want some ‘rational’ engagement where you seek to shift their state through the force of argument. What they want is to be understood - to have someone get what they’re feeling and why. Think of the times when you are upset - isn’t that also what you want?

Truly listening to someone is a powerful gift that can foster a real sense of connection. It also supports people to re-centre themselves, taking the immediate charge out of any anger. At the very core of our de-escalation will be ongoing empathy. It is the lifeblood of NVC and will be essential to maintaining peaceful connection at protest actions. It is also likely to be fundamental to any growth in this movement, since all the latest psychological research suggests that people are not often persuaded to change their worldviews but instead open to change through the pathway of connection.

4. Ask First - Is the other person ready to hear your perspective?

This helps to build a nonviolent culture of consent and choice. If you want to be genuinely heard by the other, they need to be ready to hear you. And they are unlikely to be ready if they are triggered and angry and don’t first feel heard by you. This is why empathy first is critical. And then, when there is connection between you, respect that person’s space by asking them whether they are open to hearing what’s alive for you. Asking for consent prepares them in a small way for listening, so they are more likely to take on board what you are saying.

A is also for Authentic Self-Expression. In other words, how can you express what is alive for you in ways that are authentic as well as compassionate and connecting.

Before you do this, spend a moment to connect emotionally with your reasons for being involved with XR. What is it that deep within you is motivating you to spend hours, days, weeks organising and going to the streets, with the consequences of arrest if you get arrested?

5. BreaTHE - Self-check in. Notice your sources of support. e.g. empathy, movement, checkin. Plan to access them.

Don’t forget that protests, and conflict within them can be intense, energy-sapping, scary and many other things besides. You may well need empathy of your own or other support to sustain your nonviolence in and beyond them. When they are over, make sure you bookend your contribution with a debrief. Ground yourself again as you did at the start. Seek support and access it.

Embedding Nonviolence / Deescalation

De-escalation in Large Crowd Situations

Theatre, Fun, Music and Song

These can all be used to entertain and change the energy.

Establishing Silence

In large crowd situations where the tension is rising, it can be really helpful to establish silence, because it can be calming in itself and because it will enable you to initiate other tactics, with everyone aware and joining in. However, establishing silence does require a high level of responsiveness and may not be possible in really large or dispersed crowds. If it feels too difficult, don’t waste time on it, but move on to the next tactic.

Two methods:

You can then very briefly and calmly let people know what you’d like to do next and why (why nonviolence and de-escalation are important), invite people to join in with a song or use one of the tactics below.

Sit Down and Invite Others to Sit Down Too

This can have a very calming effect.
Make sure there is plenty of space around the violence / conflict, especially a free route to withdraw.
It can also be helpful to fall silent. .

De-escalation Line

This is especially useful for conflict between lines of police or riot police and activists when tension is building too much.

Gentle Singing / Chanting and “Stop” Hand Gesture

We are non violent, how about you?

This next one is only appropriate to use when engaging with aggressive police and other aggressive people.

Try it out and compare the effect with the sung version. At the International Rebellion in October ‘19 it was sometimes used inappropriately when police were behaving with respect - so then it created tension where there wasn’t any before. See 4 min film.

Encountering Extreme Anger or Threatening Behaviour

If you can’t deal with it, get help elsewhere (including the police if necessary).

Embedding Nonviolence / Deescalation

So, I Want to be a De-escalator - What Next?

Join The Telegram Chat

Join the telegram chat.
Please don't be put off if you can't get Telegram though - you can still volunteer in person by turing up at an event and asking for the Deescalation team.

Complete the Recruitment Form

Signup to the Deescalation email list.

Join a Training Session

Trainings publicised on Facebook (no need to have an account)
https://www.facebook.com/EmbeddingNonViolence/

Training workshops and drop-ins to be scheduled soon for 2024.

And we run face to face training before large events, which typically last 1 hour.

Other Action Suport Roles

There are a whole range of other Action Support roles within the Action Support Circle.

Protest Liaison

We optimise actions by liaising with the police and security contractors, as well as local authorities, on behalf of the protest.

Protest Liaison

What do XR Protest Liaison do?

If a protest action is assessed by the planners as likely to be more effective if the police are notified in advance, XR PL will contact the relevant force and let them know the details of the protest. At the protest itself, XR PLs will be wearing a burgundy coloured tabard and will act as the point of contact between the police and the protesters. It is best that other rebels on the protest refer the police to XR PL, rather than tell the police anything themselves.

Contact protestliaison@extinctionrebellion.uk

Protest Liaison

The Right to Protest vs. the Role of the Police

Whilst there is no specific ‘right to protest’ in law, everyone does have the right to peacefully protest. This right is enshrined in the rights to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, freedom of expression, and freedom of assembly and association, which are rights protected under Articles 9, 10 and 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The ECHR is enshrined in UK law in the Human Rights Act 1998.

In terms of the role of the police with regard to protests, one of the better explanations comes in the 2009 Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary report, Adapting to Protest, ‘ECHR Article 11 places both negative and positive obligations on the police. The police must not prevent or restrict peaceful protest except to the extent allowed by ECHR Article 11. In addition, the police have a duty in certain circumstances to safeguard the right to peaceful assembly. In other words, public authorities, including the police, are required to show a certain degree of tolerance towards peaceful gatherings where demonstrators do not engage in acts of violence, even if these protests cause a level of obstruction or disruption. The level of tolerance that should be extended is likely to be the subject of extensive public and political debate, which has merit in its own right.’

Therefore, whilst public authorities should not normally interfere with the rights to protest, they are however qualified rights, and there are circumstances where the right to protest can be restricted if that restriction is assessed to be proportionate (e.g. if the restrictions are prescribed by law, pursue one or more legitimate aims, and are necessary in a democratic society). The government has enacted legislation over the years to prescribe in law restrictions to the right to protest, e.g. Public Order Act 1986, Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, and Public Order Act 2023. When the police choose to use such legislation, it is for the courts to determine whether or not their restriction to the right to protest is necessary and proportionate, or actually unlawful (as was the case with the Metropolitan Police and the October 2019 protest in London).

Further more detailed legal advice is available in the Arrestee and Legal Support section and via Informed Dissent Resources.

Protest Liaison

Communicating with the police

It is acknowledged and understood that the issue of talking to the police at all is a sensitive one, not least because of the findings in many reports (e.g. The Casey Review) that police forces are institutionally racist and misogynistic. It is recognised that people of colour, other communities racialised as non-white, and other marginalised groups have suffered, and continue to suffer, from over-policing, and that their interactions with the police are inherently more risky than for those racialised as white. Through experience, we have found that liaison with police prior to an outreach action has resulted in a reduced police presence and a more welcoming environment for outreach to marginalised groups.

In these contexts, we believe that some forms of protest benefit from communicating with the police and/or Local Authorities in advance, whereas in other cases the protest will be more effective if the authorities are not notified in advance but liaised with once the action is in place.

The purpose of XR Protest Liaison is to help optimise the effectiveness of a protest action and to prioritise the safety of all involved. To that end we have developed channels of communication with the police. This enables us to contact the right people at the appropriate time, depending on the nature of the protest. It is important that when we speak to police they understand that what we say is true to the best of our knowledge at the time. It is equally important that the police know and accept that we will withhold information in circumstances when disclosure would hinder the effectiveness of an action.

If your Action team or Local Group would like help and support in communicating with the local polioce or site security please contact us protestliaison@extinctionrebellion.uk

Protest Liaison

Becoming an XR Protest Liaison - what does the role require?

The role of Protest Liaison is usually performed by an experienced rebel who has undergone the relevant training. The qualities needed are as follows:

Training is offered to interested rebels after a vetting process to maintain team security. If you feel this role is of interest to you, please contact protestliaison@extinctionrebellion.uk

Rhythms

Rhythms are the thundering heart of the movement. We play simple percussion music inspired by Brazilian samba. Bands can help rebels claim and hold space for protest, attract attention and create a positive and fun atmosphere. Our groups can be large or small, bands have ranged from over a hundred to just a few individuals so we are versatile and agile in our support.

Rhythms is a crucial part of the climate activism movement because we bring a fun, carnival atmosphere to protests that can lift spirits and diffuse tense situations. Although it’s not always appropriate to have a band at quieter and more serious demonstrations, when we are invited to a protest we help people claim space for nonviolent resistance.

Integration of Rhythms at marches and actions can look effortless, but how noise will be used on protest needs be considered. We’re best for marches and longer or larger actions where energy needs to be maintained. Any action which intends to use Rhythms should discuss with a band coordinator beforehand how the music is going to be used. Communication is vital, so a link role with the band is essential during an action.

Where does XR Rhythms come from?

There have been samba-fusion activist bands in London since the 1980s, when the band Batucada Mandela supported an anti-apartheid picket at the South African embassy. In the 1990s, the bands Barking Bateria and Rhythms of Resistance London supported anticapitalist protests. Rhythms of Resistance would later become a global movement.

In 2018, two XR activists with specialities in world music brought some people and some drums together to make the first Extinction Rebellion band during the October Declaration of Rebellion in London, using Rhythms of Resistance as an inspiration. The bands spread from small groups in London and Bristol to a national network that can bring hundreds of people to protests.

Who can join XR Rhythms?

Anybody!

We help people who want to get involved in environmental and social justice protest find a place for themselves. No experience and very little time commitment is necessary to join a band. Most bands practice for a couple of hours once a week or every few weeks, and will usually have spare instruments. You’ll immediately have something to do in Extinction Rebellion and a friendly group to do it with!

Find out more about us on our website

Contact us: info@xrrhythms.uk

Actions Outreach

We reach out to the public to listen and connect. To encourage others to explore their own feelings and viewpoints, responding with follow-up questions and reflecting back what’s been said. After a genuine connection has been fostered we’re able to offer further information about what’s going on.

Imagine: The action/event is underway. Members of the public are passing by and catch sight of the scene. Some are amused and bewildered, others are frustrated and cynical.

Our objective: to offer a genuine conversation about climate change and the environment to someone who may not typically find many opportunities to confront the crisis.

Outreach will often also staff the welcome hub at large events where members of the public have questions answered and are directed to resources, training, or other support teams as appropriate. Outreach teams can wear purple hi-vis.

Typically needed for actions with high amounts of general public passing by.

Contact Us: actions.outreach@extinctionrebellion.uk

Further Info
Street Outreach training workshops
Street Outreach guidance
Outreach Methods and Materials

Arrestee / Back Office Support

There are many roles related to Arrestee Support and Backoffice, but on the day of actions, these are the ones required:

Typically required for actions where arrests are possible or where high police protester interaction is likely (eg stop and search or bad police behaviour).

Further detail can be found in the Back Office Support Book

Art Factory

Art Factory 1500x600.png

Art Factory We are the makers, painters, printers and sewists. We produce the hand-made objects used by XR on a massive scale, from factories across the UK.

We produce patches by the thousands, we make flags, we paint banners and we encourage people to use their bodies as rebellious spaces to continually demonstrate, communicate and create conversations.

Our aim is to support XR national, regional and local actions, as well as sister movements and Movement of Movements by providing an endless flow of beautiful objects and passing on the skills to encourage others to do the same. We are here to provide help you may need doing that.

Because items take time to manufacture (if they don't already exist) the sooner you can get designs agreed and to your maker team the better.

MAIN POINTS:

The Art Factory needs at least 3 weeks lead time to make your art assets. The Art Factory does not make spicy objects. The messaging and colour palette of the action should be devised with Media & Messaging before it comes to the Art Factory. We do not create the messaging for your action. The core Art factory is in London, with additional Art factories around regions/nations. Creative Circle works with us to develop UK art groups, prototypes, performance groups and serve XRUK actions and outreach: Contact the UK Creative Circle: artsxr@gmail.com The Art Factory crew also organise UK Art Blockers.

Contact us: artblockers@gmail.com

Needs linking to Creative/Art Factory Book once written

XR Action Support Teams Collaborating with Other Organisations

Our Action Support teams have extensive experience working with allied organisations.

There are many ways of working together:

We welcome members of other organisations volunteering to join our support teams. This could either be as individuals, or we could arrange online training sessions specifically tailored to your group.

Contact us at actionsupport@extinctionrebellion.uk to discuss.