Mark Whitehead 20 November 2019

Change law to enable volunteers to respond to disasters, Red Cross says

The British Red Cross is calling for the law to be changed so that voluntary groups are included in planning responses to emergencies and disasters.

It says emergency services, Government bodies and councils may not take local knowledge into account because they are not legally bound to involve volunteers.

In its report, People Power in Emergencies, the charity looks at how far local resilience forums, which lead local council emergency planning, factor in the knowledge and skills offered by the voluntary and community sector.

It says collaboration is variable, but responses to emergencies tend to focus chiefly on 'command and control' mechanisms.

It recommends a 'people at the heart of planning' checklist for local resilience forums, and an amendment to the Civil Contingencies Act, Regulations and Guidance.

This would require local resilience forums to plan a more ‘person-centred’ approach.

Mike Adamson of the British Red Cross said: ‘This is about showing how we complement the work of our partners.

'It’s also about giving a voice to those affected by emergencies and highlighting local challenges, sensitivities and opportunities to help people survive and recover better.

'It’s people and communities who know best what their needs are and how they want them addressed.'

For more on this visit The MJ (£).

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of People

Lancashire County Council
£108,697 - £117,998
As a leader at Lancashire County Council, you’ll join an authority with real scale, courageous ambition and deep pride in place. County hall
Recuriter: Lancashire County Council

Director of Strategy and Transformation

Lancashire County Council
£108,697 - £117,998
As a leader at Lancashire County Council, you’ll join an authority with real scale, courageous ambition and deep pride in place. Preston, Lancashire
Recuriter: Lancashire County Council

Care and Support Assistant -Longlands

West Northamptonshire Council
13.52ph
About the role We are looking for a dedicated Care and Support Worker to join our team at Longlands Care Home in Daventry. In this rewarding role, you will provide compassionate, person-centred care to older people and those living with dementia, includin Daventry
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Highway Design and Construction Manager

Bolton Council
Grade N, scp50 £62,443 to scp53 £65,663 per annum, plus essential car user allowance
We embrace AI to enhance our operations and to innovate our services. Bolton, Greater Manchester
Recuriter: Bolton Council

Social Worker - Huddersfield Royal Infirmary

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£38,220 - £40,777
Looking to appoint as a Level 2 or Level 3 Social Worker. Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Linkedin Banner