UK’s first Rainworks project

Young people in County Durham have taken part in a project to help people prepare for problems like flooding.

Durham County Council’s Civil Contingencies Unit (CCU) teamed up with St John’s Church Youth Group, ‘Teen Spirit’, for the first Rainworks project in the UK.

The project was part of a wider initiative, which aims to help people to be prepared in case of an emergency situation, such as flooding and severe weather.

It started with an information session covering topics like emergency plans for your home, sandbagging and what to have in a bag ready to grab in case of an emergency.

The sessions were also aimed at encouraging the young people involved to pass on the information they learned to friends and families to reinforce the message that it’s good to plan ahead.

As part of the Rainworks project, the CCU and youth group created stencils and used waterproof spray to write ‘Today’s Weather Rain’ on the pavement outside the Shildon Alive Hub on Church Street. The words will appear on the pavement when it rains.

Su Jordan, Durham County Council’s CCU Programme Office Manager, said: “This project is about reminding people to be aware of the weather conditions – particularly in areas that can experience problems during severe weather.

“It’s the first time a Rainworks project has taken place in the UK and it’s great to see young people getting involved.

“As a community, it’s important we all come together in an emergency and support each other. By introducing community resilience in a ‘fresh’ way, younger people will be more inclined to take part.”

Lucy Mann, Shildon Youth Group leader, said: “I’m so pleased to be involved in the UK’s first Rainworks project. It’s new, fun and exciting and it’s also an interesting way to engage with youth groups about community resilience.”

If community groups would like to make a Rainworks contact the CCU team on 03000 264 264 or email ccuenquiries@durhamdarlingtonccu.gov.uk.