Developed by: the Building Research Establishment, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Manchester

Six Steps to Flood Resilience emerged out of a European Union (FP7) research project called Smart Resilience Tools, Technologies and Systems which sought to develop and test small scale measures (such as property level protection) that increase physical resilience to flooding.

It was identified, however, that simple planning guidance to support new innovations was lacking. This guidance outlines a simple-to-follow six step process, and signposts relevant evidence, documentation and other resources. Two guidance documents were produced which cover the whole process of implementing flood resilience measures from identifying the problem, surveying properties, through to design, maintenance and operation. One is suitable to be given to property owners and/or businesses which may be funding their own flood resilience measures. The other is specifically aimed at local authorities and partner organisations who may be commissioning a flood resilience scheme for a neighbourhood.

Though not specifically written to address social vulnerability, the guidance documents indicate a generic process to follow. When used to alleviate the impacts of extreme weather events on the most socially vulnerable, the guidance is potentially quite powerful. It emphasises the social process that need to wrap around the technical ones. For example, people with reduced mobility may need products designed that are suited to their needs. The guidance also recommends that flood groups and/or community flood wardens are established to support the deployment of flood resilient technologies.

You can access the guidance (June 2013) here.