It’s all in the planning

Our protocols for health and safety have evolved many times over 55-plus-years in business, and they continue to evolve to meet the demands of today. The values that underpin our commitment to health and safety are unchanged – a dedication to scenario and contingency planning that relies on a rich network of partners, and a “do-what-it-takes” commitment to respond to whatever the world hands out.

• Partnerships: We work closely with organizations like Exlog to stay up-to-the-minute on world events and can utilize their extensive resources to respond in a serious situation. We have a relationship with The George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates and a member of their team, Dr. Neal Sikka* serves as the designated medical advisor to WorldStrides. Over several decades we have carefully selected and developed strong relationships with partners that align with our safety standards. All of our vendors are vetted and typically very experienced in working with our team.


• Worldwide network: We have more than 44 offices worldwide to further enhance our safety capabilities. Our local staff and local partnerships help to get real-time information that’s key to our planning and response.

*Dr. Neal Sikka, The George Washington University Department of Emergency Medicine, and The George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates are independent medical providers. WorldStrides is not a medical service provider and its employees do not render medical care or treatment, nor does WorldStrides control the selection, training, or supervision of any medical provider.

Health and Safety Team

We believe Health and Safety is a full-time job. Not just for one person, but for a team. Our team, led by Robin Reliford, Head of Health & Safety, is solely focused on the job of keeping our students safe. Backed by the resources of the entire organization, our skilled health and safety professionals can effectively respond to situations large and small.

An arsenal of emergency support

Ask anyone who’s had an unexpected emergency while traveling with us and they’ll tell you – we have your back every day, every hour…24/7, no matter what!

• Doctors on Call: Our exclusive relationship with The George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates (GWMFA) providing 24/7 access to medical care for all traveling participants. Through telehealth consultation, medical professionals are available to evaluate health-related concerns and make recommendations for treatment. Telehealth consultation with a mental health professional is also available through our relationship with AXA Behavioral Health.


• Extensive Emergency Manual: We have an extensive emergency procedure plan that details how we will deal with all types of emergency situations and our on-site team members have been trained to carry out these plans. If there is an emergency on your program, we will be ready to spring into action.