Community preparedness

The information on this page can help community groups think about how they can prepare and support their communities before, during and after an emergency.  

Community action is about utilising local knowledge and capabilities and resources to collectively work together. A community doesn't have to just mean a formal group or organisation such as a parish/town council or school. It can also be a group of people who are linked by a common bond, shared interest or simply, because you are neighbours. 

Building local relationships and thinking about how to prepare before, during and after an emergency can help strengthen both your personal and community resilience to emergencies. 

Benefits of being involved and prepared 

Communities understand challenges experienced by those in their local areas, by working together and being involved in your community it can help to enable a coordinated response and recovery. 

In an emergency, local responders will always have to prioritise those in greatest need, especially where life is in danger. There will be times when you may be affected by an emergency but life is not in immediate danger. During this time, you need to know how to help yourself and those around you.  

By becoming more resilient, you and your community can complement the work of local emergency responders and reduce the impact of an emergency on your community both in the short and long term.​ 

One size doesn't fit all 

Community groups differ, and therefore will look different. When preparing for emergencies it is useful to consider the following points: 

• awareness of local and national risks that may affect your community - understand community vulnerability and those that may need your support

• identify facilities/locations and resources that could be used in an emergency

• recognise existing skills, local knowledge and expertise that can complement a response

Creating a Community Emergency Plan

When an emergency happens, a plan can help you know who to contact and how to support your community, whether through identifying local risks or utilising local resources such as a community hub. 

This community emergency plan template provides an outline of the key information plans should include with guidance notes included. Additional resources to assist with awareness and plan preparation can be found below: 

• National Prepare campaign - information for communities and community groups

• Thames Valley Local Resilience Forum's community preparedness page - take a look for more information, including a plan guide, toolkit and template

Talk to your community and other community groups 

Talk to your community and other community groups to understand groups already working to support and enhance your community resilience. Think about how your community can work together and hold outreach sessions. 

Our work at West Berkshire Council is to encourage individuals, communities and organisations to prepare for, respond and recover from emergencies. If you would like more information or guidance please contact us. 

Additional resources

The Thames Valley Local Resilience Forum Community Risk Register highlights potential hazards in our area which you should consider when creating your emergency plan(S).

You can also find guidance on the GOV.UK website for individuals, businesses and communities, to help identify and prepare for the hazards and threats that may disrupt your life.