Liability and insurance

Although any civil claim for damages arising from a case of food poisoning would, it is anticipated, be covered by a congregation's public liability policy, such a policy does exclude deliberate acts or omissions. There is, therefore, possible that the insurance cover might be withdrawn by the company and personal liability would attach to individual office-bearers in cases where those office-bearers were aware that standards in the church kitchen where the food was handled or prepared were manifestly unsafe.

Congregations that have specific enquiries in regard to the above or with respect to food safety generally should contact the Law Department on 0131 225 5722 or email lawdept@churchofscotland.org.uk for further guidance.