Make sure you know what you can - and can’t do — within the law so your protest can take place hassle-free. Don’t forget that you have a positive right to peaceful protest.
Assembling in public space
Different rules apply to a procession or march, and to private land.
As a general rule, if you want to gather together and demonstrate about an issue in a public space, for example with a stall and placards - an ‘assembly’ - you do not need permission from the police or the council.
Provided you do not block the public highway, and you act peacefully and without any threats of violence, you will generally not be committing any crime. This shouldn’t be an issue for your action anyway: a protest aiming to engage shoppers is unlikely to involve intimidation or disruption - you don’t want to alienate those you’re trying to engage!
Leafleting
Leafleting for political purposes (e.g. public campaigning) is also permitted, and does not require permission. Leaflets should include a name and address for the producer, and should not be offensive or libellous.
Further information
Find out more so you feel confident about your action. Being clued up about your rights to protest peacefully leaves you better equipped to exercise, defend and advance this vital element of a democratic society.
If you’re planning to take action at your local shopping centre, check out this Friends of the Earth’s Briefing How to: Protest on the right side of the law has essential information and practical tips for effective peaceful protest
Liberty’s guide to human rights Liberty is one of the UK’s oldest human rights and civil liberties organisations, working to protect civil liberties and promote human rights.
The activists’ legal project - a not for profit collective, provides information about the law to a wide range of grassroots social change activists as well as people who are considering taking action for the first time.