Advice and support on offer to those affected by floods in Shropshire

Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin’s residents and businesses affected by the recent flooding are being given the opportunity to discuss their questions and concerns with local flood recovery experts through a new virtual platform.

In response to the devastating flooding which affected the County in the weeks after Storm Dennis, Shropshire Council have been working with the National Flood Forum to set up a ‘Virtual Information Trailer’ which will offer help, support and advice to those who have been affected by the floods in line with current Covid-19 guidelines. The project is being funded by the Environment Agency and has been extended to cover Telford & Wrekin Council which also experienced devastating flooding particularly in Ironbridge.

Staffed by flood recovery experts, the virtual trailer is a meeting point for anyone who wants to discuss any issues they are facing in the aftermath of being flooded.  From insurance queries to re-instating homes after the flood or quite simply the chance to just talk about what’s happened, as the NFF is available for practical and emotional support.

In addition to the National Flood Forum and Councils Flood Risk Management Teams, representatives from the Environment Agency and Severn Trent will be present to offer advice and answer any questions people may have.

Appointments for the virtual trailer must be booked in advance by calling the National Flood Forum on 01299 403 101.

Heather Shepherd, Community Support Manager and Flood Recovery Specialist for the NFF said:

“Having been flooded myself I understand how traumatic it is. I know that the process of recovery is fraught with a number of stresses and pressures, which is why I would urge anyone who has any flood-related issues or questions to come and talk to us. We are here to help, offer advice, signpost you to the best sources of professional support and actively listen to your concerns.”

John Bellis, Shropshire Council’s Flood Risk Manager said:

“Under normal circumstances our Flood Risk Management Team would have been out in flooded communities offering advice but this is simply not possible at present. Shropshire Council are aware that there are many people across the County who are having to face the difficulties of self-isolating either in temporary accommodation or homes which have still not been repaired after the recent flooding. The Virtual Recovery Trailer will be the first time this approach has been tried nationally and its great news for Shropshire residents.”

Councillor David Wright, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet lead for Drainage and Flood Management, said:

“People living in the Ironbridge Gorge have had to deal with a crippling double blow of the worst flooding in 20 years and subsequently the lockdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are determined to help them however we can going forward and I therefore am happy to support this excellent initiative from our partners in Shropshire. Anything that gives our residents a voice and goes someway to reassuring them has to be welcomed.”

Dave Edwards, Partnership & Strategic Overview Team Leader at the Environment Agency, said:

“We’re pleased to be able to work with partners to continue to engage with communities affected by the recent autumn and winter flooding. These virtual support sessions for communities in Shropshire are an excellent platform for us to engage with residents and business owners when we can’t easily meet in person due to the coronavirus pandemic. These sessions mean we can continue to work to protect the public and the environment.”

The NFF has a wealth of experience in flood recovery and flood issues. It is unique in being the only organisation that addresses the subject of flooding alone and has supported many communities across the country to recover from the material and emotional trauma of flooding.

For further help and advice on flooding issues contact the National Flood Forum Helpline on 01299 403055.  You can also visit www.floodforum.org.uk

For all media enquiries please contact Amanda Davies, Operations Coordinator 07734 899708 or amanda.davies@floodforum.org.uk