Paul Hendy – Community Support and Recovery

As the Community Support and Recovery Manager for the Scottish Flood Forum, I am responsible for the day-to-day development and running of flood recovery operations throughout Scotland. This involves a wide range of partnerships with local authorities, the voluntary sector, and Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) to develop recovery support following flooding in communities, and from this, working to minimise the effects of future flooding to property and communities. I also develop and deliver training for SFF staff and externally on a wide variety of subjects including business continuity.

I have been heavily involved for a number of years with many communities throughout the UK who have experienced the trauma of flooding. This followed 20 years as an ordained Salvation Army Officer. My background in flooding, recovery and community engagement includes:

• In 2005 I directed the Carlisle flood recovery programme known as Communities ReUnited, effectively a community partnership between local churches, the voluntary sector and Carlisle City Council. This programme met the ongoing practical and emotional needs of flood victims following the Carlisle floods and conducted valuable research into the effects of flood trauma on flood victims.
• Following extensive flooding in Yorkshire and Humberside in 2007, and Morpeth 2008 I worked directly with the Environment Agency, local authorities, the voluntary sector and communities where I adapted key parts from the ‘Communities ReUnited’ programme as a model for flood recovery. My work also involved mediation and resolution of many insurance claim difficulties and property restoration problems for flood victims.