Community Emergency Plan Updates

March 2026 – Preparing for flooding

Volunteers play a vital role in preparing for and responding to emergency events. Volunteering not only supports immediate needs but also promotes a culture of shared preparedness and helps build a stronger, more resilient community. As we continue to face natural and man-made emergencies, such as flooding, severe weather and wildfires, the role of volunteers remains indispensable.

To date we have recruited 43 volunteers from across the village. This network of volunteers is ready to undertake various practical roles to support our community before, during and following an emergency.

This year we are hoping to recruit more volunteers for the following roles:

• Rest Centre Volunteers, who receive training to help set up and run a rest centre, a safe space for residents who have been evacuated from their homes.
• Monitoring Volunteers, who observe and monitor events in their location. They are the “eyes on the ground” providing information and updates on the ongoing emergency across the village.
• Volunteers with Specialist Skills and Resources, who have professional skills and equipment, such as tree surgeons and 4×4 response vehicles.

Volunteers receive training, information and support to ensure they feel confident and competent. We also have a volunteer WhatsApp group, keeping us connected so that we can respond quickly and stay updated.

If you would like further information or you are interested in becoming part of our village volunteer network and want to make a real difference when it matters most, please contact us by emailing:

cllr.ann.brookes@walshamlewillows.gov.uk
cllr.ian.bartholomew@walshamlewillows.gov.uk

Walsham le Willows Parish Council