The Flood Hub

This blog has been written by a member of the Newground Flood Team

Flooding can impact anyone, but some people are more vulnerable to its effects. This blog explores how you can support neighbours, family, or community members who may need extra help before, during and after a flood, with tips on flood kits, priority services and community resilience planning.

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If you live in a flood risk area, you’ve likely taken steps to protect your home, like packing a flood kit, signing up for flood warnings, or installing property flood resistance and resilience measures. But have you considered the needs of those in your community who may be more vulnerable to the effects of flooding?

Flooding can have serious impacts on everyone, but some individuals are at a higher risk and may struggle to respond or recover without extra support. That’s where friends, neighbours and communities can make a real difference.

 

Who is Considered Vulnerable During a Flood?

Vulnerable people are those who may need extra support before, during, or after a flood due to:

• Age (especially older adults living alone)
• Disability or chronic illness
• Mental health conditions
• Pregnancy or caring for young children
• Lack of access to transport or communication

In many cases, people might not identify themselves as vulnerable, but during an emergency like flooding, they may require assistance with evacuation, staying safe, or recovering afterward.

 

How Can You Help Vulnerable People Prepare for a Flood?

Being proactive can make a big difference. Whether you’re a neighbour, friend or community flood volunteer, you can support vulnerable people in simple but effective ways:

• Help them sign up for the Environment Agency’s free Flood Alert and Warning service
• Make them aware of the Priority Services Registers provided by United Utilities and Electricity North West, and help them sign up if eligible
• Assist with packing a flood kit, especially if mobility or memory is a barrier
• Support them with moving furniture or placing flood barriers when a warning is issued
• Help arrange transport or evacuation plans, especially if they don’t drive
• Provide regular check-ins, especially after the flood has passed

 

 

What Should a Flood Kit Include for Vulnerable People?

According to Age UK, here are key items older or vulnerable people should keep in an accessible emergency flood kit:

• A supply of prescription medication
• Spare hearing aid batteries or contact lenses
• First aid kit
• Warm items like a blanket, socks and a hat
• A wind-up torch and whistle
• A battery-powered radio and spare batteries
• Soup packets and a flask
• Important documents in a waterproof pouch
• A camera to record damage for insurance claims
• Emergency contact numbers

Download a full flood kit checklist here.

 

What Are Priority Services Registers and Why Do They Matter?

Priority Services Registers offer free, extra support during water or electricity disruptions for people who need it most. Provided by United Utilities and Electricity North West, these services ensure that vulnerable people receive fast responses and additional help during emergencies.

For example, someone who uses medical equipment at home or has limited mobility may benefit from early alerts and emergency contact. Signing up is free for anyone in the North West who meets the criteria.

• Learn more and sign up to priority services here: https://thefloodhub.co.uk/household/#priority-services
• Watch Electricity North West’s video explaining the service here: https://youtu.be/HkrbLx3FhjU

 

Why Are Community Resilience Plans So Important?

Community resilience plans help towns and villages prepare for emergencies like flooding. These plans can:

• Identify vulnerable residents who may need support
• Share contact details with emergency services (with consent)
• Allocate roles for local volunteers
• List available resources such as 4×4 vehicles, generators or first aiders

Having a plan in place means emergency services and community groups can act faster and more effectively when flood events happen. You can work with your local flood group, parish council or community network to develop or review a plan.

 

How Can You Support Vulnerable People After a Flood?

The aftermath of a flood can be incredibly stressful, especially for those already managing other challenges. Helping someone through recovery could involve:

• Compiling key phone numbers (e.g. local council, insurance provider, United Utilities, Environment Agency)
• Assisting with clean up or arranging professional help
• Taking photos of flood damage for insurance claims
• Supporting temporary relocation or accommodation
• Contacting local charities for practical or emotional support
• Regularly checking in and offering emotional reassurance

 

 

 

Sources: Mencap, AgeUK, United Utilities, Electricity North West