Understanding Royal Guards and Public Safety: A Protocol-driven Balance

When considering the role of royal guards, it is important to understand the delicate balance between protocol and public safety. In the case of a child approaching a royal guard for assistance, what happens next is rooted in both traditional military protocol and the prioritization of public safety.

Protocol and Public Interaction

If a child approaches a Queen's Guard for help, the guard is trained to remain rooted in their position and not engage directly. Protocol dictates that they must maintain their post and the security of the area. However, this protocol does not mean dispassion or disregard for public safety

In situations where a child appears to be in distress or needs immediate assistance, the guard may signal for a colleague or other security personnel to intervene and provide help. The primary responsibility of the guards is to ensure the security of the area, and they are trained to recognize when they should break protocol to assist in dangerous situations.

For example, a guardsman stationed at the Queen Victoria Memorial in the 1970s stopped a child from running into traffic. While he was docked two days of pay for this action, it demonstrates the balance between protocol and the necessity of ensuring public safety. Protocol does not equal discompassionate.

Equipped for Emergency Situations

In emergency situations, such as the need for immediate help from a child, the most likely course of action would be to press an emergency button for assistance. However, the guard may not get off their horse, especially in a crowded area. The safety of the guard is also a priority, and getting off the horse in a crowd of people can be dangerous.

The Role of Uniformed Police

When a child or member of the public needs assistance, there are often uniformed armed police officers at each guard post. The guards would continue to perform their assigned duties, while the police officer would step in to help the public within reason. This ensures that the royal guard can continue their primary role of maintaining security, while the police can handle specific directives and emergencies.

The Exception to Protocol

In absolute emergencies where lives are at risk, such as a situation that directly endangers the safety of the Queen, a royal guard may be called upon to take immediate action. However, such an action would be rare and would require an extremely clear and present danger.

It is important to respect the role of the royal guards. The Army and these guards are not equipped or trained to deal with missing or lost children. In such cases, the officer would contact the police and ensure that the child is looked after until help arrives. This approach keeps both the child and the guard safe in high-pressure situations.

Conclusion

The role of royal guards is multifaceted, balancing protocol with the requirement to ensure public safety. While they maintain a stance of keeping to their duties, they are trained to adapt when necessary to prevent dangerous situations. The involvement of uniformed police officers ensures that these highly-trained soldiers can continue to serve their primary role without being diverted from their duties.