Emergency Plan - Fylde Borough Council

Emergency Plan February 2007
Once the scene has been cleared and the site restored to normality, then consideration may
be given to the erection of a permanent memorial, in consultation with appropriate agencies
such as victim support groups and the local community.
8.10 Responding To Community Welfare Needs
Support to those affected by an incident is a crucial part of the recovery process. The ripple
effect of a disaster is likely to require a long-term commitment by the Council. Some support
will be of a very practical nature and may have a significant impact on the Council’s ability to
meet its service delivery requirements. LCC Adult & Community Services will not be the only
area providing welfare support. Provision of welfare support to the community is distinct and
separate to the support given to local authority staff.
8.11 Humanitarian Assistance Centre (HAC)
Once the initial response to the emergency has ended, the Council will work with Lancashire
County Council to lead the migration of the various support structures into a multi-agency
Humanitarian Assistance Centre. Its fundamental purpose being to act as a singular focus
(“one stop shop”) for survivors, relatives and all those impacted by the disaster, through which
they can access support, care and advice. In extreme cases, this function may continue for an
extended period of years.
8.12 Personal Support for Individuals
People react differently to crisis and no single professional group holds the key to recovery of
all those affected. External agencies including the LCC Adult & Community Services and the
voluntary sector offer additional resources but these need to be coordinated, managed
sympathetically and not forced on people.
8.13 Letters Of Appreciation & Thanks
In order to avoid duplication and embarrassment, letters of thanks/appreciation from the
Council to those people who have assisted during a major incident will be co-ordinated by the
Chief Executive. It is desirable for these letters to be sent promptly after the event if they are
to have maximum effect. Other officers who wish to write to specific individuals should inform
the Chief Executive to ensure that the information is recorded.
8.14 Elected Members
Elected Members are a useful source of local knowledge can be a useful resource in providing
support within the community and in giving specialist advice about the affected area. They can
assist with the channelling of information to and from the public and can provide support when
dealing with other elected representatives, including MP’s, MEP’s, Cabinet Ministers and
other VIP’s.
8.15 Offers of Material Help
It is likely that many offers of help will arrive from the general public, businesses, charities,
voluntary agencies and others. Some will be of practical assistance, others will be goods for
those directly involved. These offers of help and assistance will need to be managed and coordinated
effectively
8.16 Media
During the recovery phase media attention will focus on local authority activity and there will
be a demand for access to senior officers and elected members. It is essential to develop a
coherent media strategy and maintain a consistent media message. National media focus is
likely to decline but local interest will remain. It should be recognised that the media can be a
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