Prepare
Your Community
Guidance for community groups and volunteers
Preparing your community for an emergency helps ensure people are supported, informed, and able to respond effectively. By working together and planning ahead, communities can reduce the impact of disruption and provide support to those who need it most.
5 ways communities can
Prepare for an emergency in Cheshire
Preparing your community before an emergency occurs will strengthen resilience, improve coordination and support those most in need.
Understanding local risks allows communities to take practical steps to respond effectively.
Supporting vulnerable residents
Some members of the community may need additional support during an emergency.
Identify those who may be vulnerable, such as older people or those with mobility needs, while respecting privacy.
Plan how support can be offered safely, including checking in and helping access essential supplies.
Connect with support groups in the community to help boost personal resilience. To find out more please visit the following pages in your local area: Cheshire West and Chester: Home | Live Well Cheshire West Cheshire East: Live Well Cheshire East Halton: Home | Halton & St Helens VCA Warrington: Living Well Warrington - Living Well Warrington
Communication during disruptions
Clear communication is essential during an emergency.
Agree how information will be shared within the community using a range of methods such as phone, social media, or local networks.
Ensure information is accurate, timely, and based on official guidance.
Coordinating volunteers
Volunteers can play an important role in supporting the community.
Identify individuals willing to help and assign clear roles where appropriate.
Ensure volunteers understand safety guidance and work alongside local authorities where needed.
Local communities benefit from a strong volunteering culture.
Find volunteering opportunities in Cheshire and Warrington here: Cheshire and Warrington Volunteering Hub and for Halton please visit: Search Volunteer Opportunities
Access to community resources and facilities
Community buildings and resources can support response and recovery efforts.
Identify available spaces and consider how they could be used during an emergency.
Work with local partners to ensure facilities are safe, accessible, and ready if required.
Local infrastructure organisations (LIOs)
There are community and voluntary services available in each local authority area of Cheshire, which help support communities to be strong, connected and resilient. Local Infrastructure Organisations (LIOs) support local charities, community groups and volunteers by providing advice, resources, networking opportunities and signposting to relevant support services. There are 4 which cover the county of Cheshire: For more information about the organisation in your area, please click on the relevant click:
Community & Voluntary Services Cheshire East: Homepage | Community & Voluntary Services Cheshire East
Cheshire West Voluntary Action: Championing the Community Sector | Cheshire West Voluntary Action : Cheshire West Voluntary Action
Halton & St Helens Voluntary & Community Action: Home | Halton & St Helens VCA
Warrington Voluntary Action: HOME | Warrington Voluntary Action
What to do if there is an emergency?
Understand the risks that could affect your community locally.
Work together to identify vulnerable individuals and groups who may need additional support.
Develop a community emergency plan that includes:
How information will be shared
Key contacts and roles
Available resources and safe locations
How to support vulnerable residents
Build relationships with local emergency services and partner organisations.
Share clear and accurate information with residents.
Support vulnerable individuals where it is safe to do so.
Coordinate with local authorities and follow official guidance.
Use community networks to stay connected and respond effectively.
Support recovery within the community, especially for those most affected.
Review actions taken and gather feedback.
Update your community plan to improve future preparedness.