Organisers are urging festival-goers of the risk that may pose such as rising drug risks, sexual assault support and on-site welfare zones. Here’s where to get help if you’re attending
As thousands arrive at Reading and Leeds this weekend, welfare teams at the festival have released a full breakdown of where to go if something goes awry – whether you’re unwell, in distress, or need urgent support.
#LookOutForEachOther is a campaign across both sites this year, aiming to raise awareness around festival safety, with a specific focus on mental health, drug harm reduction, and protecting vulnerable attendees.
We’ve put together all the safety areas you need to know if you’re attending.
Welfare Tents
The Welfare Tents are open around the clock and staffed by trained professionals, they provide support for anything from anxiety and panic attacks to fatigue, overstimulation, or if you simply need space to calm down. Anyone feeling unwell, distressed or overwhelmed is encouraged to walk in or speak to a steward for guidance.
Opening hours: 24/7
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Medical Tents
Paramedics and NHS staff will be on hand at multiple medical tents to assist with drug-related illness, dehydration, physical injury and emergencies. If you suspect someone has taken a dangerous substance or is showing worrying symptoms, get them seen immediately. All support is confidential.
Opening hours: 24/7
Samaritans Tent
Volunteers from Samaritans will be on site offering one-to-one support for anyone struggling with their mental health. Festival-goers can drop in for a private conversation at any time, with no appointment or judgment.
Opening hours: 24/7
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Sexual Assault Referral Centre
The SARC Centre provides confidential, professional support for anyone who has experienced sexual assault., services include medical care, safeguarding advice, forensic support and emergency contraception. Police involvement is not required to access help.
Opening hours: Wednesday, 12pm–midnight, then 24 hours a day
#LookOutForEachOther Hubs
These stations form part of the wider safety campaign, offering information on what to do if a friend becomes unwell, signs of a bad drug reaction, and how to report concerns quickly. Staff and volunteers are trained to support without judgment.
Drug Advisory Support
On-site volunteers are available to provide factual information and crisis support in drug-related cases. Festival teams are not there to punish or judge, but to prevent harm. Anyone worried about themselves or a friend should seek advice immediately. Being honest about what was taken could save a life.
Festival Angels & Salvation Army
These support spaces are available for anyone needing a moment of calm, a friendly face, or help returning safely to their campsite. They also provide emotional support for those feeling vulnerable or alone.
Opening hours: 24/7
Ask for Angela Scheme
Festival-goers who feel unsafe or uncomfortable in a social situation can discreetly ask staff for “Angela” to be removed from the situation safely. The codeword is widely recognised and part of a nationwide scheme.
Lost & Found / Missing Persons Tent
Lost property and missing persons can be reported here. Staff can help reunite groups, locate lost phones, or assist if someone hasn’t been seen for several hours
Organisers are reminding attendees that no one will get in trouble for asking for help and early intervention can make all the difference. If someone becomes unwell, confused, aggressive, or unresponsive, contact a steward, head to welfare, or call for medics without delay.
Reading and Leeds Festival will also have welfare teams and visible high-vis staff roaming both sites throughout the weekend.
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