Increase in Flood Forum funding

9 Sep 2010 09:46 AM

Communities at risk from flooding are to benefit from an additional £63,000 in Scottish Government funding.

The money, granted to the Scottish Flood Forum (SFF), will help communities identify flood risks and give them access to advice on what to do when flooding does occur.

Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham, announced the increase at today's SEPA conference in Edinburgh. She also launched SEPAs consultation on Flood Risk Management - 'Planning for floods - planning for the future' .

Two new SEPA leaflets, which explain flood management changes and give the public key information to help them prepare for and deal with a flooding incident are also being made available.

Roseanna Cunningham said:

"Climate change predictions suggest that flooding is likely to become more frequent in future so we have to engage with the public now to raise awareness of flooding and the actions that individuals can take to minimise the impact.

"The Scottish Flood Forum plays an essential role in doing this by establishing and maintaining clear lines of communication with communities.

"I know how valuable their support can be. Earlier this year, the SFF played a vital role in helping families and businesses recover from flash flooding in my own constituency in Perth.

"Those looking for flooding advice should look at the new SFF web-site. It is a great resource where information about a wide variety of flooding issues is available. It also has regular updates and contact details."

Director of the Scottish Flood Forum, Paul Hendy said:

"We're delighted that the Scottish Government is providing the additional financial resources that will allow us to look to the future and give extra advice to Scotland's at-risk communities.

"What is really encouraging is that the Scottish Government is working closely with organisations like ourselves to deliver direct community support to strengthen resilience throughout Scotland. "

The SFF has been at the centre of recovery work in a number of badly hit towns including Stonehaven, Huntly, Dumfries and, most recently, Perth.

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