As autumn leaves fall and winter draws near, Bedford Borough Council, alongside the Environment Agency, will be taking part in Flood Action Week - a national campaign running from 13 to 17 October designed to raise awareness and help communities prepare, protect, and feel confident in the face of flood risks.
Flooding is more than just a worry, it can be life-changing. With climate change increasing the number and intensity of flood events, a growing number of properties across the country are facing flood risk. The average cost to recover from flood damage, according to the Environment Agency, is around £30,000, with repair works often keeping people from returning home for five months or more.
That’s why Flood Action Week is the perfect opportunity to come together as a community and learn key steps to keep homes safe, build resilience, and know exactly who to turn to if the unthinkable happens. Bedford Borough’s network of community flood groups has made great strides in improving local communication and flood response - but it’s every homeowner's responsibility to protect their property from flooding, and everyone has a part to play.
To help prevent flooding, the Council runs a cyclical gully clearing rota on public highways year-round, focusing extra checks and clearance on known flood hotspots as the flood season approaches. The Council also responds swiftly to emergency calls to unblock gullies and reduce flood risk. If any resident is aware of something that could increase the risk of flooding in Bedford Borough, they are able to find who to report it to at www.bedford.gov.uk/ReportFlooding
The Elected Mayor of Bedford Borough, and Portfolio Holder or Emergency Planning, Tom Wootton, said, “Flooding can be daunting, and its effects long-lasting. I see the worry it causes families and neighbours. Flood Action Week is not just about information, it’s about empowering every homeowner to protect their property and loved ones. While the Council and emergency services stand ready to help, being prepared yourself is the first and most important step. Together, we build a safer, stronger Bedford Borough.”
The week includes engaging social media posts sharing practical advice, local stories, and information, culminating in a public event at Harpur Square on Friday, 17 October, 11am-2pm. Bedfordshire Fire Service, Bedfordshire Police, and the Bedford Borough Council Resilience and Highways teams will be there, along with other partner organisations, ready to offer advice and support.
Whether reviewing your insurance, making a flood plan, or knowing how to shut off utilities, every small step counts. Join the conversation online and visit the event in Harpur Square for expert advice and friendly support.
Residents can visit www.bedford.gov.uk/flood to find out what they can do to prepare for flooding. On the same page, there is also information to support local residents during and after any instances of flooding.
This event is brought to you by Bedford Borough Council and funded by the Environment Agency, working together to keep Bedford Borough resilient, as flood risks rise.