It’s Resilience Week and businesses and organisations are being urged to keep prepared for incidents, emergencies and disasters.
But the message is just as important for individuals at home and in their communities, and a bit of social networking could prove vital in a crisis.
Wigan Council’s civil contingencies lead, Cllr Fred Walker, says: “Emergencies happen. And when they do, our emergency services will always have to prioritise those in greatest need. There will be times when you may be affected by an emergency but your life is not in immediate danger. During this time, individuals and communities may need to rely on their own resources to ensure they are able to cope with the consequences of the emergency.”
Many communities already come together help each other in times of need. But council contingencies experts say that those who have spent time planning and preparing for this are better able to cope, and recover more quickly. Local people and communities who are prepared show us how successful community resilience can work.
Cllr Walker is asking everyone: “How resilient is your community? Your village or street? Your sports club? What can you do to help?”
It’s already second nature for many. Existing relationships, neighbourliness, local groups all show real value in a crisis. The council is keen that groups like this come forward if they want to develop their community resilience skills.
Cllr Walker adds: “Some existing local community groups will have information on how to get involved or how they can fit resilience into their agenda. These could include parish councils, faith organisations, Neighbourhood Watch groups, Scout leaders, residents associations and youth groups. By building on existing local relationships and networks, using local knowledge and preparing for risks, your community will be better able to cope during and after an emergency.”
The civil contingencies team at the council are keen to hear from local groups who want to develop their skills in this area. Group leaders can contact the team manager on 01942 827188.
