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A free guide has been introduced in the UK to help communities get ready for emergencies such as floods, wildfires, and power outages. It includes practical tips on how to manage during these events and advice on supporting vulnerable neighbours when disaster strikes.
Tina Groves, who is visually impaired and lives in Ilminster, Somerset, recalls a frightening experience nine years ago when floodwaters suddenly filled her kitchen. Initially, she thought the sound of rushing water was part of her television program, but it was in fact a real flood. “That brings new meaning to surround sound,” joked the Prince of Wales during a visit to Ilminster, where he sat with Groves at Sweet Surprise café and reflected on how people with sight difficulties might face additional challenges in emergencies. Groves expressed gratitude for her neighbours who helped evacuate her safely and assisted with cleaning up after the flood.
Ilminster has endured several severe weather events over recent years, including flooding and, more recently, wildfires. The Prince of Wales traveled to the town not only to listen to its stories of resilience but also to launch the Ready Together initiative. This National Emergencies Trust project offers a free online toolkit designed to support communities in preparing for various emergencies, including disasters and disruptions to vital services. Prince William serves as a patron of the charity, with actor Ross Kemp acting as an ambassador. Both were present in Ilminster for the launch event.
Mhairi Sharp, chief executive of the National Emergencies Trust, emphasized that Ready Together serves two main purposes. It is “an evidence-backed, how-to guide that shows people how to build resilience and preparedness in their communities.” Additionally, it acts as a campaign urging people to take proactive steps towards emergency readiness. Developed alongside researchers at Nottingham Trent University, the toolkit helps community groups—ranging from local residents’ associations to sports clubs—address key aspects like communication, supplies, and support for vulnerable individuals. Users can assess local skills and resources, identify needs, and create tailored emergency plans with practical guidance and downloadable tools.
Beyond extreme weather, the guide also encourages thinking about other potential crises such as cyber attacks, which could disrupt banking or essential services, and extended power outages that might leave communities without heating and communication. Among the practical tips are recommendations to store non-perishable food and keep sufficient cash on hand for essentials—although Sharp acknowledges that the advice to hold cash can be challenging amid a cost of living crisis. Historical data supports the importance of preparedness, showing that despite a fourfold increase in global population, the death rate from natural disasters has dropped by more than 90% over the last century, thanks to improved warnings, infrastructure, and emergency responses.
Ross Kemp, who has reported from disaster zones, shared his personal practice of keeping emergency supplies like tinned food, batteries, and candles at home. “It’s going to go dark in your house one day,” he said. “Maybe the fuse box will blow. You’ll need a torch, candles, something to light them with. It’s about being prepared.” Kemp believes that the true strength lies in communities coming together, just as Groves’ neighbours did. “We have great blue lights in this country, but communities are usually the first in and the last out,” he remarked. Reflecting on the cooperation witnessed during the Covid pandemic, he noted, “We’re really good at doing that during a crisis. But how much better would we be if we were prepared?”
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