CorpComms Magazine

A new Facebook campaign has been launched today as a support network for those affected by flooding across the UK.

The government backed Flood Group UK page helps people and communities to prepare for floods as the winter months approach. Up to 5.4 million properties across the UK are estimated to be at risk, but every £1 spent on protecting communities from flooding saves £8 spent on repairing damage.

Flood Group UK allows users to share information about any experiences they might have had, and give advice to other users at risk of flooding.

Heather Shepherd, flood community and recovery support specialist from the National Flood Forum, said: 'Sharing ideas, experiences and information amongst communities that have either suffered flooding, or are at risk of flooding, can help enormously.'

The page contains a directory with information on how to find out which areas of the country are at risk, and how to sign up for flood warnings. The Facebook page also provides tips on what can be done to protect properties from damage.

Phil Rothwell, head of flood strategy at the Environment Agency, said: 'Floods can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage and many months of heartache and disruption. This damage can be dramatically reduced when a community comes together to prepare for flooding by keeping people up to date with latest in warnings or flood protection products, sharing experiences or by helping to make small changes to homes  to reduce the impact of flooding.'

The page has already been received warmly. One Facebook user wrote: 'Well done! This looks to be a fantastic resource for people at risk from flooding. I hope some useful debate and good information will be available :)'

A sixth of properties in England and Wales and one out of 18 properties in Northern Ireland are at risk of flooding.

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