This snapshot taken on 07/04/2010, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.
Last updated: 23 November 2008
Minister for the Third Sector Phil Hope has praised the work of volunteers involved in the emergency response to this summer's floods on a visit to South Northamptonshire.
During his visit, which took place on Thursday 30 August, the Minister met with South Northamptonshire Council Leader Sandra Barnes and Chief Executive Jean Morgan to discuss how the council responded to the crisis, which hit five villages in their district and threatened the town of Towcester. He also visited two of the worst affected villages in the area – King Sutton and Helmdon.
Phil Hope said:
“There has been some tremendous cooperation within communities to support the victims of this summer's flooding. In Helmdon, charities like the Red Cross, the Salvation Army and the Women's Royal Voluntary Service pulled together to have a reception centre for potential evacuees up and running as soon as the emergency plan was activated, and kept it staffed night and day.
“So often charities and volunteers can be the unsung heroes, but in situations of crisis they are often among the first to help: providing food, shelter and compassion for those affected. They deserve our thanks, and our support to ensure they continue to play a vital role in emergency response and recovery, alongside statutory agencies such as the police, fire service and local authorities.
“It is important that we, the Government, listen to the experiences of the volunteers and charities who helped this summer, alongside the individuals affected and other stakeholders, so we can learn for the future. We've announced an independent review of the floods, headed by Sir Michael Pitt, and I would encourage anyone involved to contribute their views.”
The important role of the third sector in planning for emergencies was recognised in the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. This established a statutory framework for civil protection at a local level, setting out a requirement for the local response to take into account the activities of voluntary sector organisations that might be relevant in an emergency.
Significant efforts have been made to ensure the resumption of normal business in Northamptonshire following the floods, including more than £73,000 issued to the county in Government aid.