In this special episode of The PGN Podcast, host Meshi Taka is joined by Lynn Thompson, (PGN STE(A)M Lead), to discuss insights from the Northumbrian Water’s Innovation Festival, where they engaged with attendees about their experiences and knowledge of flooding. In this episode, we cover various personal stories and expert opinions on the impacts of flooding, the importance of emergency planning and stories of community resilience.
Key Topics Covered:
Community and conversations: The importance of community engagement and support during flooding events, and the significance of fostering conversations about flooding to enhance resilience and strengthen connections.
Impacts of flooding: The mental, physical and financial impacts of repeat flooding on residents, including true stories from Innovation Festival attendees.
Emergency planning: Emphasis on the need for comprehensive emergency planning and preparedness, even for people who don’t believe they are at risk of flooding.
Complex challenges: The complex challenges of flooding, beyond just the immediate damage. Including disruptions to services, transportation and access to critical facilities.
Nature-based solutions: The role of nature-based solutions and sustainable drainage systems and how they work to reduce the impact of flooding.
Impact on emergency services: The emotional toll flooding can have on emergency responders and recovery workers who witness the devastation caused by flooding.
Research and support: The growing need for more research and support around the mental impacts of flooding, both for residents and those responding to incidents.
Guest Speaker:
Lynn Chapman: As the STE(A)M Lead for Project Groundwater Northumbria, Lynn brings expertise and insights into flood management dynamics.
Useful Information and Links:
The English National Study of Flooding and Health - Summary of the evidence generated to date
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5e6bb75fd3bf7f2695546ba8/Summary_of_findings_NSFH_January_2020_Final_for_DsPH__3_.pdf
Flood map for planning -
GOV.UKhttps://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/Check the long term flood risk for an area in England -
GOV.UKhttps://www.gov.uk/check-long-term-flood-riskFlood Re -
A flood re-insurance scheme
https://www.floodre.co.uk/BeFloodReady – Property Flood Resilience (PFR) | Helping Reduce Flood Riskhttps://www.befloodready.uk/
