Heatwave and Hot Weather Resources

As temperatures rise across the UK, it's important that we all take simple steps to prepare for the challenges that hot weather can bring. While many people enjoy the sunshine, periods of extreme heat can have a serious impact on health and wellbeing, particularly for older people, young children, those with long-term health conditions, carers, and people who are socially isolated.

The Voluntary and Community Sector Emergencies Partnership (VCSEP) has brought together a wide range of trusted information to help individuals, communities and organisations prepare for the summer months. The guidance includes practical advice on staying cool, recognising the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, checking in on neighbours, and preparing for other seasonal risks such as drought, wildfires and flash flooding.

At Community Action Norfolk, we know that strong communities are resilient communities. A simple phone call to a neighbour, ensuring someone has access to drinking water, or helping people find a cool place to rest can make a real difference during periods of hot weather.

The VCSEP resource hub also includes information from organisations including UK Health Security Agency, the NHS, the Met Office, British Red Cross and others, making it a valuable source of up-to-date advice for voluntary organisations, community groups and residents alike.

If you're supporting vulnerable people this summer, or simply want to be better prepared, we encourage you to explore the resources and share them with your networks.

For more information, visit the VCSEP Summer Preparedness resource hub here.