My client is facing protests from campaign groups: how should I handle the comms?

Campaign group action has grown in visibility in recent years, with more businesses finding protests arriving on their doorstep. 

Our Director Kristy Ebanks offers guidance on the steps communicators can take to respond with clarity and confidence:

1. Focus on de-escalation: Stay calm, avoid defensiveness, highlight constructive actions being taken 

2. Centre the client’s mission: Maintain confidence in your client’s ability to deliver on its responsibilities

3. Prepare for media: Have a bank of professional, neutral and fact-based lines to fall back on - but proceed selectively

4. Manage visibility: Ensure clients’ on-site presence is low-key, prioritising safety and avoiding confrontation 

“The most effective response is one that remains controlled, mission-focused, and credible. By staying calm and strategic, you protect reputation, reinforce public trust, and ensure the protest is managed without compromising the client’s core purpose.”

Read the full piece published as part of PR Week’s ‘Ask the Experts’ column here