Wessex Flood Recovery Guide 2026

Essential information and support after flooding

If you have been affected by flooding

If it is not possible to remain in your home, your local authority may be able to help with temporary accommodation, welfare support, or financial assistance.

Find your local council: www.gov.uk/find-local-council

Report flooding

If your home or business has flooded, please report it as soon as possible:

www.gov.uk/report-flood-cause

Reporting flooding helps agencies respond and plan future flood prevention.

Insurance

If you are insured, contact your insurer as soon as possible.

Do not carry out repairs that could prevent damage assessment.

Some insurers offer up to £10,000 through Flood Re’s Build Back Better scheme for flood resilience measures.

www.floodre.co.uk/buildbackbetter

If you are not insured, contact your local council or the National Flood Forum (01299 403055).

Returning home safely

Only return when emergency services say it is safe.

Do not turn on gas, electricity, or water until checked by a qualified engineer.

Cleaning up after flooding

Take photos and keep records of all damage.

Floodwater is contaminated – take care to protect your health.

Advice on cleaning and drying your home:

www.gov.uk/how-to-recover-from-flooding

Important contacts

Emergency (life in danger): 999

Floodline (24 hours): 0345 988 1188

Environment Agency incident hotline: 0800 807060

Wessex Water: 0345 600 4600

National Flood Forum: 01299 403055

British Red Cross: 0344 871 1111

Samaritans (24 hours): 116 123

Flood warnings and future preparation

Check current flood warnings and sign up for alerts: www.gov.uk/flood

Consider Property Flood Resilience (PFR) measures during repairs.

Find out more at www.befloodready.uk and www.floodmary.com

Looking after your wellbeing

Recovering from a flood can be stressful and overwhelming.

If you are struggling, contact your GP, call NHS 111, or Samaritans on 116 123.