Herefordshire Council: Community Flood Equipment Scheme pilot

• Location: Herefordshire Council 

• Purpose: The Community Flood Equipment Scheme pilot was launched to help minimise the disruption and damage caused by flooding, which is becoming increasingly frequent across the country. The scheme also helps deliver the Community Flood Action Plan. 

• Description: The programme provides free equipment to the local community to help limit the damage done by flooding. The equipment is stored at locations throughout the community so it can be easily accessed. Equipment available includes: sandbag alternatives; hydro snakes; temporary portable flood barriers; torches, and more.

• Funding: The scheme is funded as part of the council's wider flood resilience work. Funding comes from a variety of sources for the council, including Defra’s Flood Defence Grant‑in‑Aid, a levy on council tax given to the Regional Flood and Coastal Committee, and an additional £2 million committed by the Council in 2025 for the next two years to tackle flooding. 

• Conservative councillor/ council lead: Cllr Elissa Swinglehurst

• Further links: Community Flood Equipment Scheme Pilot link