Introduction

The Masjid E Vali Team (MVT) will ensure that all visitors are afforded a warm, friendly and professional welcome to the Masjid, whatever the purpose of their visit. Masjid E Vali has a legal duty of care for the health, safety, security and wellbeing of all staff, volunteers, congregants and visitors to the Masjid.

In performing this duty, the MVT recognises that there can be no complacency with regards to health & safety and site security. Masjid E Vali therefore requires that all visitors (without exception) comply with this policy and procedures. Failure to do so may result in the visitor being escorted off the Masjid E Vali site.

Aims

To safeguard all visitors during organised visits to include any activities, programmes, and workshops agreed by Masjid E Vali. The ultimate aim is to ensure visitors are presented with an opportunity to dispel misconceptions about Islam and experience Islamic culture and practice first hand in a warm and welcoming environment.

Who is responsible for this policy?

The MVT has overall responsibility for the effective operation of this policy and for ensuring compliance with any relevant prevailing health and safety guidance.

Important Information for Visitors to Masjid E Vali

Masjid-e-Vali is the House of Allah and a place of worship. Visitors are expected to observe the principles of modesty, cleanliness, and purity at all times. Appropriate modest dress and respectful conduct in line with the Masjid’s rules and guidelines are required.

Visitors to Masjid E Vali

• All group visits must be agreed in advance of the visit to the Masjid.
• Group leader signs the Visitors Record Book (name, organisation, and who they are visiting).
• Visitors are provided with first aid and emergency evacuation information and the name(s) of the designated Fire Marshall.
• Visitors are escorted to their point of contact and must not move about the site unaccompanied.

Visitors’ Departure from Masjid E Vali

• All visitors must depart via the main entrance.
• Departure time must be recorded in the Visitors Record Book.
• Visitor badge returned to reception (if applicable).

Unknown / Uninvited Visitors to Masjid E Vali

• Unknown/uninvited visitors should be challenged politely regarding identity and purpose of visit.
• If a visitor refuses to comply, they should be asked to leave and the MVT informed promptly.
• The MVT will decide if police assistance is required.

Volunteers

All volunteers will be subjected to an Enhanced DBS Disclosure Check (if not already held) via the Masjid office.

Approved Visitor List

Masjid E Vali retains an approved visitor list for frequent visitors/contractors undertaking work within the Masjid complex. A digital copy is maintained by the Masjid office team.

Organised Visits — Visitor Guidelines

• All visits must be arranged in advance with the Masjid-e-Vali administration team.
• Group leaders must brief all participants prior to the visit.
• Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
• Remove shoes upon entering; place them on the shoe racks provided.
• Phones/devices on silent to avoid disturbance.
• Bags left in designated areas as directed by staff/volunteers.
• Speak quietly within the building.
• Food and drink are prohibited in prayer halls.
• Female visitors are requested to cover hair/head with a scarf while inside the Masjid.
• Wear modest clothing: arms and legs covered; no singlet vests or shorts.
• Smoking is prohibited within Masjid-e-Vali and surrounding areas.
• Photography only with prior permission; commercial photography/videography not permitted.

External Speakers

Masjid E Vali welcomes guest speakers and external agencies to enrich learning experiences. However, speakers and agencies are scrutinised to ensure they do not contradict the ethos of the Masjid or conflict with the law. Masjid E Vali does not tolerate offensive or intolerant language, or any speech that gives rise to harassment, intimidation or violence.