Executive summary Crisis can happen anywhere at any time. This report – bringing together British Red Cross emergency response data and research with over 4,000 UK adults – shows how prevalent emergencies are in the UK and that we need to do more to harness the public’s desire to get involved in responding to them. The community reserve volunteer programme is a new opportunity for the public to make a difference during an emergency like a flood or fire. It’s quick and easy to sign up online and community reserve volunteers will be contacted oss. by text if there is an emergency in their community that they could help with. Specialist skills aren’t required and training is provided at the scene. don/British Red Cr ek Gor The British Red Cross has teamed up with Aviva for a three-year partnership, including the Photo © Der community reserve volunteer initiative. We want to build a network of 10,000 volunteers across the Community preparedness for crisis UK who can be called upon to help in a crisis. - The public recognises the likelihood of an Emergency response in the UK emergency in their community and a need to - In 2017 the British Red Cross responded be more prepared. to approximately 1,500 emergencies across - Most people who have experienced an the UK. emergency felt they could have offered more - Recent extreme weather incidents such as support but didn’t know how (66%). Storm Eleanor and the Beast from the East Harnessing the power of kindness in a crisis show there is a real need for support from - Effective emergency response needs to be the public in emergency response. human-centred, focussing on individuals Community spirit and the desire to help and communities. - When disaster strikes communities want to - Organisations like the British Red Cross and play a part and small acts of kindness can Aviva can help to connect people in a crisis. make a difference to people in need. To learn more about the community - The majority of people (88%) would want to reserve volunteer scheme and how to help if an emergency happened in their area. sign up, visit redcross.org.uk/reserves Copyright © 2018 Any part of this publication may be cited, translated into other languages or adapted to meet the local needs without prior permission of the British Red Cross, provided that the source is clearly stated. For any questions about this report please contact [email protected] 2