Every year public-spirited volunteers get out in their communities and support people who are affected by severe weather conditions.
Whether shoveling the snow away from schools or transporting food and medicine to the vulnerable, these volunteers step up for neighbours in trouble.
This is the community spirit that lies at the heart of the Big Society and the Government is keen that no would-be volunteer is discouraged or barred from helping out.
This guidance is for all those individuals, and voluntary groups, who want to get involved.
The guidance challenges misconceptions about health and safety laws getting in the way of action and volunteering, It also contains contacts for useful charities for vulnerable people such as the Red Cross, and tips on how to volunteer.
We need the Big Society most in times of adversity when communities have to pull together.
Check that any elderly or disabled neighbours are alright in the cold weather. If you’re worried about them, contact your local council.
Check you know who might need help in your community by speaking to your local Parish Clerk.
Further very useful information on community resilience can be found using the links below, this guidance sets out how you can survive the ice and snow and help your neighbours & community to do the same.
http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/communities/severeweatherguidance
http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/communities/pdf/1789192.pdf
http://www.sussexemergency.info/