Advice and support for residents and businesses affected by flooding
People and businesses affected by flooding can access support and advice at a recovery surgery, hosted in partnership by Telford & Wrekin Council and charity, the National Flood Forum (NFF) on Wednesday, May 4.
The NFF’s recovery trailer will be touring impacted communities along the River Severn with recovery experts on hand to give advice on a range of issues including insurance, property resilience reinstatement and flood action groups - a one-stop-shop for practical and emotional support.
Deputy Leader for Telford & Wrekin Council and Cabinet Member for Housing, Enforcement, and Transport, Councillor Richard Overton (Labour) said: “Floods are placing a huge amount of stress and pressure on residents, businesses, and communities alike and the situation is unsustainable. It is the third year of severe flooding on the Severn, leaving riverside communities counting the cost.
“We want residents to know we are on their side and are pleased to welcome the National Flood Forum’s recovery trailer to the Gorge, delivering support to those in the process of recovery or preparing for the next time flood waters raise concerns.
“We have also called for urgent action to provide both short term and long-term solutions including installing flood resilience measures that can lessen the impact and better support those affected.”
Heather Shepherd, NFF flood recovery specialist said: “Having been flooded myself, I understand how traumatic it is. I know that the process of recovery is fraught with stresses and pressures, which is why I would urge anyone who has any flood-related issues or questions to come along to the recovery trailer.
“We are here to help, offer advice, and guide you to the best sources of professional support and actively listen to your concerns.”
Flooded residents and business owners from everywhere along the river are invited to attend the location and time which is most convenient for them.
Rhys McCarthy, from the Environment Agency says “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to work with the National Flood Forum and our other partners to roll out these flood recovery surgeries. I urge anyone who flooded recently to come along and share their experiences and benefit from the expert advice and support on hand.”
Severn Trent Water’s Tim Smith says “We know how devastating experiencing any type of flooding can be, which is why we’re looking forward to working with the National Flood Forum and supporting with the flood recovery surgeries. We’d encourage anyone who may have recently experienced flooding along the River Severn to visit the surgery, to meet ourselves and other partners to gather advice and receive support.”
The National Flood Forum always works in partnership, representatives from Telford & Wrekin Council, Environment Agency and Severn Trent Water will also be on board the trailer to inform and answer questions at a local level.
Both sessions will be held on Wednesday, May 4 the first between 10am and 1pm at Station Yard Car Park, Ladywood, Ironbridge, TF8 7JP and the second between 3-7pm in the parking bays along 61-70 Lloyds Head, Jackfield TF8 7LZ.
Advice on flooding and resilience issues can also be sought at any time by contacting the National Flood Forum helpline on 01299 403055 or visiting www.nationalfloodforum.org.uk
