The new year got off to an extremely wet start for people living in Lincolnshire, and many people woke up on Monday 6 January to adverse weather conditions. With many areas already under flood warnings following heavy rain overnight, we were on high alert to ensure that the people we support and our staff teams remained safe.
In one area of Boston, we kept an eye on worsening weather conditions as 4 people we support live in a property with a river at the end of the garden. Unfortunately, there was already flooding to their neighbours’ properties. Luckily, the people we support were not yet affected.
However, later on Monday, a major incident was declared county-wide. By Tuesday, further warnings were issued as there was a potential surge expected at midnight.
At 2.30pm, we took the decision to activate our business continuity plan. These plans help us keep people safe in the event of incidents such as flooding. Our support team then prepared the property as best they could against any potential flood damage and support the 4 individuals to relocate somewhere safer.
Putting the plan into action
Within an hour, Leanne (Operational Manager) had sourced a hotel for the individuals to stay at.
Tracey (Support Worker), Kerry (Team Coordinator) and Rachel (Community Support Leader) had helped each person pack their essential belongings and had removed items from the ground floor, to prevent damage if water entered the property.
They were joined by a friend of the 4 individuals, along with his staff, who helped move furniture and pack belongings.
One person was frightened because of the river in the garden – everyone could see how high the water levels were! Staff reassured him and the others, explaining they would be going out for tea together and having a short holiday. This worked really well and the approach meant that everyone was much more relaxed and enjoyed their experience.
They loved the impromptu holiday and their meal at the pub with friends. Fortunately they returned home on Wednesday, when the major incident status was lifted.
Reflection and learning
Whilst we were fortunate not to be directly affected by the flooding, it has made us think about preventative measures. We’ve also considered how we would support people who have physical/mobility needs. For example, relocation might be more difficult if there is a lack of accessible accommodation locally.
Leanne Tinsley, Operational Manager, said:
I would like to say a huge thank you to the team for everything they did to keep things as stress-free as possible for everyone. They really went above and beyond, and are a credit to Thera East Midlands.