According to Environment Agency research, 18-34 year olds are least likely to know if the area where they live is at risk of flooding and least likely to know how to protect their homes and possessions. Less than half (48%) of under 35s would know what to do if a flood warning was issued.
• 18-34s least aware of dangers of flooding in their area
• Mental health impacts of flooding can last for two years or more
The Environment Agency is spending more than £2.6 billion to build flood schemes around the country as part of its current programme, which will better protect 300,000 homes by 2021.
The British Red Cross wants to create a national network of 10,000 Community Reserve Volunteers who can be called upon to help in a crisis. Over 5,000 people have already signed up to the scheme so far. This new volunteering opportunity allows you to make a difference during a flood, fire or any other major emergency near you.
To be a Community Reserve Volunteer you don’t need specialist skills to make a difference and simple acts of kindness can make big difference. Any necessary training will be given at the scene of the crisis and you can confirm your availability when you are contacted. With these initiatives the Environment Agency and the Red Cross want to see younger people not only better prepared for flooding but also more actively involved in supporting the community in times of need.
Take the first step towards being prepared in a crisis, join the new national network of Community Reserve Volunteers to help their communities if disaster strikes at >> https://reserves.redcross.org.uk
For more information about becoming a Community Reserve Volunteer, check out the FAQ’s at >> http://reserves.redcross.org.uk/faq
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