Warning how flood damage could have a more devastating impact on victims this winter

It revealed that half of adults (49%) in England place more sentimental value on their homes this year compared to last year, but many people do not know that they may need to take action to protect their household memories from a flood.

This research, commissioned by The Environment Agency, highlights how flood damage could have an even more devastating impact on victims than usual this winter.

Findings show one in eight (12%) people have no idea whether they live in a flood risk area, meaning millions could be at risk of being caught out by a flood

Homes have taken on a multitude of new purposes over the past year – from workplaces (35%) and classrooms (13%) to hair salons (29%) and gyms (39%). They have also become the setting for important memories for many people, including milestone birthdays (19%), starting a new job (13%), marriage proposals (9%) and learning a new skill (15%).

This makes it more important than ever for everyone to check their flood risk online, and for those in flood risk areas to follow the Environment Agency’s Prepare. Act. Survive.’ plan to safeguard their treasured homes and possessions.

Since 2015, the Government has invested £496m flood defences in Yorkshire – more than any other region – better protecting more than 66,000 properties

Adrian Gill, senior flood risk manager for Calderdale with the Environment Agency, said: “We are working hard with our partners to improve protection for the communities by developing flood defences and using natural flood management techniques. However, with climate change already causing more frequent, intense flooding and sea level rise, it is crucial that we all know what to do, should the worst happen.

“People living in parts of Calderdale are at particular risk due to the geographical nature of the valley.

“Knowing what to do in a flood event can save you thousands of pounds in damages and disruption so we urge you to be prepared and download our free flood plan.”

As well as demonstrating how much people value the space they live in, the research also highlighted items which have the most sentimental value in their homes and could be lost forever in the event of a flood. Over a third (39%) have kept treasured items that had been given to them by a loved one no longer alive, with the most valued items including photos of loved ones (62%), sentimental jewellery (30%), keepsakes from children (29%) and sentimental ornaments (27%).

Caroline Douglass, Director of Incident Management & Resilience at the Environment Agency, said: “Our new research shows that our homes are more important to us than ever before, meaning that the impact of a flood this winter could be even more devastating.

“While the Environment Agency is doing everything we can to prepare for the winter, the climate emergency means that we are experiencing more extreme wet weather than ever before.

“Just as they will be aware of Covid 19 restrictions, we’re urging everyone to check whether they live in an area at risk from flooding and know the simple steps to remain prepared – such as moving possessions upstairs and preparing a grab bag with medicines and important documents. This will help reduce the damage and keep yourself and your family safe.”