The Environment Agency and the Kent Resilience Forum are running a volunteer flood warden training session in Addington, West Malling on 12 March, aimed at people who would like to make a real difference to their community.

Flooding can be devastating, destroying property and livelihoods, and disrupting lives. It is therefore essential that areas at risk of flooding help to prepare for such eventualities.

As a flood warden you would have a key role in helping to develop a community flood plan for your local area, as well as playing a crucial part in implementing that plan in the event of flooding.

Once trained and equipped, you could be helping to raise awareness of flood risks in the area, encouraging people to sign up to receive the Environment Agency’s flood warnings and playing a proactive part in reinforcing these warnings, and other safety messages, from other local authorities.

In the event of a flood, emergency services and local authorities are focused on helping those most in need, flood wardens become a vital link between those responding and their community.

Jenny Newham, from the Environment Agency’s Flood Resilience Team said: “Many people find becoming a flood warden can be extremely rewarding. Whether it’s providing practical support and reassurance to flood victims, or acting as a go-between to provide timely information and advice–you will be making a positive difference to people, helping your community when they need it most.”

The flood warden training event takes place at Addington Village Hall, West Malling ME19 5BQ on Monday 12 March between 7pm and 9pm.

To register for this event, please email the Kent Resilience Forum on krf.events@kent.fire-uk.org with your name, email address, telephone number and the district you will be volunteering in.