Advice and support sessions for flooded Worcestershire residents and businesses

The NFF recovery trailer will be touring flood impacted communities along the river from Monday, 14 March.

Residents and business owners will be able to speak to flood recovery experts from the NFF, many of whom have flooded in the past themselves, about their experiences. They will be able to get advice about issues such as insurance and property re-instatement or quite simply have the chance to just talk about what’s happened. The trailer is a one-stop-shop for practical and emotional support.

Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment, Councillor Tony Miller, said: “We’re painfully aware that recovery from flooding is a long and often traumatic and stressful process and we are pleased to ask the NFF to tour the county with their community support trailer.



“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to work with the NFF and our other partners to develop and roll out these drop-in sessions and I urge anyone who was flooded recently to join them, share their experiences and get the advice and support they need.”

Heather Shepherd, Community Support Manager and Flood Recovery Specialist for the National Flood Forum said: “Having been flooded myself, including during the last month, I understand how traumatic it is.



“I know that the process of recovery is fraught with a number of stresses and pressures, which is why I would urge anyone who has any flood-related issues or questions to come and talk to us.



“We are here to help, offer advice, signpost you to the best sources of professional support and actively listen to your concerns.”

In addition to NFF experts, representatives from the County Council, the district councils, the Environment Agency and Severn Trent Water will also be available at the trailer to help with a wide range of other flooding issues.

The schedule for the trailer is as follows:

Flood impacted residents and business owners from everywhere along the river are invited to attend whichever location and time is most convenient for them. In addition, residents and business owners from along the River Severn who are still dealing with difficult issues from the 2020 and 2021 flood events are also invited to attend.

The Environment Agency’s Place Manager for Worcestershire, Grace Wight, added: “We know that flooding is both devastating and life changing. Unfortunately for many communities across our county it’s not a new experience, however, that doesn’t make it any easier when it does happen.

“Being listened to and having the right support at the right time is crucial. Therefore, I’m pleased to be working with our partners and the National Flood Forum to be with communities during their recovery. I encourage people to come to the drop-in sessions, speak to the agencies and make use of the National Flood Forum for free, independent advice and support.”

Advice on flooding and resilience issues can also be sought at any time by contacting the National Flood Forum Helpline on 01299 403055.

The National Flood Forum, a national charity which is based in Bewdley, has been commissioned by Worcestershire councils, the Environment Agency and Severn Trent Water to use its considerable expertise and experience of working with flooded communities to run and host the support sessions.