Community emergency group

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Resilience Forum uses the term in its advice on insurance, noting that "numerous insurance providers do offer cover to community emergency groups" and that an existing body such as a parish council may find its current policy is sufficient. The forum says that while it works mostly with town and parish councils, "any community group can work to keep their area resilient", including faith groups, special interest groups and social clubs. The group's plan helps "all volunteers know their roles when there's an emergency".

The forum answers the practical questions a group raises. DBS checks are not a legal requirement for community emergency response, though a group can draw on members who already hold them. The Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism Act 2015 offers protection to someone acting for the benefit of society who has taken reasonable care. Personal data can be shared in an emergency where necessary to protect someone's vital interests.

Communities Prepared, a Groundwork project, registers community volunteer groups and their coordinators and offers free training. The Be Ready website asks people to look out for calls for support from local community groups and councils, and not to turn up at the scene of an emergency.