Flooding has long been a concern for many in our part of Norfolk – with particularly heavy rainfall in the winter of 2020/21 bringing into sharp focus once again how vulnerable many of our local communities are, especially as climate change increases the likelihood of heavy, prolonged downpours.  

That’s why, as part of my ongoing campaign to help our local communities boost their resilience and access the improved support they need when they are affected, I am pleased to highlight the Environment Agency’s annual ‘Flood Action Week’ – which runs from today (Nov 7th) until this coming Sunday (Nov 13th). 

Taking steps to prepare and knowing what to do in a flood can significantly reduce risk to life, damage to property and the suffering from mental health impacts in the future. 

I am proud to have played my part in helping to convene the Mid Norfolk Flood Partnership which lobbied on behalf of much of our area and helped shape the work and policies of the larger Norfolk Strategic Flood Alliance (chaired by Lord Dannatt). For example, the idea of a Norfolk Flooding Helpline (see more here) was one of 14 recommendations that the MNFP championed, with the group’s representations paving the way for 6 of our local towns and villages to be included in the NSFA’s first tranche of 16 communities to be prioritised for flooding support.     

I also continue to take seriously the plight of dozens of affected businesses and residents who need help engaging with Norfolk County Council/the NSFA, Anglian Water and the Environment Agency. 

There is much more work to be done however and I am committed to doing all I can.  

Flood Action Week is a key part of raising awareness and I would encourage everyone to take a look – particularly at: 

• The ‘How to plan ahead for flooding’ information page here 

• The ‘Flood Action Week’ campaign page here 

Full details of all my work to help tackle flooding and provide support to my constituents can be found on my own website campaign page here , including on some of the water management and flood prevention work that is being pioneered here in the East by Anglian Water and through innovative schemes like on-farm wetlands.