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Red Cross volunteers are systematically calling at houses, street by street, in flood-hit areas of Morpeth. In this way, they can quickly identify those who have been adversely affected by the recent weather and ascertain what help they might need.
Flood damage
The volunteers have also been encouraging those who have suffered flood damage to register with their local authority, and are particularly seeking out the elderly and most vulnerable who may need extra support. For residents who aren’t at home when they call, the volunteers are leaving behind advice leaflets.
Providing extra support, a Red Cross fire and emergency support service vehicle and a communications vehicle are stationed on the streets where the volunteers are working. The vehicles act as a focal point in case residents want to seek out extra advice, or just need someone to listen to them and provide emotional support.
Working together
As other agencies converge on the area, the Red Cross has been asked to lead and co-ordinate the voluntary sector efforts in Morpeth. This will ensure that other agencies – such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, the WRVS and other voluntary bodies – are working together to provide the help that is needed.
Judi Evans, operations director, said: “It’s at times like these that the Red Cross really comes into its own, providing sustained support for people in need after the immediate crisis has passed.”
How to prepare for flooding in your area
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