Impact of Belfast flooding revealed in Red Cross report

10 May 2010

Research published today by the British Red Cross outlines the long-lasting practical and emotional effects of flooding on households in high-risk areas of Belfast. The report, 'Living in fear of the rain', describes the ongoing psychological and financial hardship faced by householders who have been repeatedly flooded in recent years.

Red Cross Emergency Response Manager, Joanne McKenna said:

"Our research clearly shows that those affected by flooding need more help than they're presently receiving - both in terms of recovering from recent events and in planning for future flooding. They are suffering stress, anxiety and financial hardship that goes on long after the flood waters have subsided. People are frightened to leave their properties for any period of time, some have been financially ruined and other families have been separated because their homes still aren't healthy for their children to live in."

She continued: "At present the system is confusing and people aren't always sure who to turn to for help in the first instance. Most of them are finding the recovery phase of their ordeal very difficult indeed and are literally living in fear of the rain. Unfortunately climate change makes it likely that many of them may have to endure more flooding in the future, so we need to make sure they get the right kind of help."

To view the report please click here.

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