Emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime. From extreme weather to transport disruptions, London’s communities are stronger when we are ready. This September, Preparedness Month is an opportunity for the capital’s charities, community groups, and volunteers to shine a light on resilience.
At London Plus, we know that the voluntary and community sector plays a vital role in helping Londoners stay safe, informed, and supported. That’s why we strive to connect organisations to share skills, knowledge and resources for preparedness, response and recovery.
Find out more today about the London Communities Emergencies Partnership to see how we do this.
Get involved this September
Whether you’re a large organisation or a small neighbourhood group, we all play a part in ensuring our city is ready to face challenges together.
Here are five ways you can get involved and spread the word this Preparedness Month:
- Share key messages with your community
Use your newsletters, social media, and WhatsApp groups to highlight simple preparedness steps. Signpost people to trusted guidance on emergency planning, such as keeping an emergency kit, knowing key contacts, or making a household plan.
For inspiration and resources, we have created a Preparedness Month Pack. The pack includes blog copy, social media assets, useful resources and much more!
3. Run a preparedness-themed event
If you’re already hosting coffee mornings, workshops, or community gatherings, consider weaving in a short session on preparedness. Even five minutes of discussion can spark awareness and action.
Take a look at the LCEP Resource Hub for useful resources and information to share at your event.
3. Partner with local organisations
Collaboration is at the heart of London’s resilience. Team up with local councils, health services, or neighbouring charities to amplify your reach and share resources.
You can also join LCEP to connect with our London-wide network. LCEP supports Voluntary and Community Sector organisations to better prepare, respond and learn from major emergencies in London.
4. Empower volunteers and staff
Make sure your team feels confident about preparedness. Hold a quick briefing on what to do in an emergency, or circulate a checklist so everyone knows how they can help if disruptions occur.
5. Celebrate community resilience stories
Highlight examples of how Londoners have supported each other during past challenges. Sharing positive stories helps build trust, inspires others, and reminds us that resilience is already part of our city’s DNA.
Need some inspiration? Take a look at the Tales of Covid, a study of how charity and community groups across all 32 boroughs of London worked tirelessly to keep the city alive during the pandemic.
