Heatwave Response Training

To inform voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations in Bexley to enhance community resilience by engaging in dynamic discussions to identify their current preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities. Through a focused exploration of VCS skills and knowledge this exercise aims to provide VCS with valuable insights, practical strategies and connections to effectively navigate and mitigate the impacts of a forecasted heatwave. It also aims to identify gaps to enhance the London Resilience Partnerships approach to better support the VCS during extreme heat events.

Exercise Details 

The scenario exercise is tailored for the VCS, focusing on the challenge of a heatwave.

The scenario injects are carefully crafted to simulate fictional yet plausible situations that communities could encounter. They serve as dynamic learning opportunities, enabling participants to explore and expand their understanding of emergency preparation and response strategies.

The scenario is strategic in the sense that those participating are exploring strategic engagement and collaboration; it is not a training for front-line responders. Participants will be able to develop practical actions plans for their members and constituent organisations.

Participants Responsibilities  
All participants play vital roles within the community. In this exercise, the focus is on brainstorming innovative and insightful strategies for both VCS organisations and community members to address critical needs and make positive impacts. This includes actions to be taken before an emergency, within the initial 48 hours of response, and throughout the recovery phase.

Specifically, participants will concentrate on communication, coordination, and asset management. They will devise creative solutions to overcome challenges in these areas, ensuring effective preparation, response and recovery efforts.

Throughout the exercise, as well as during the debrief, participants will have the opportunity to highlight the most effective ideas and practices. These insights will be shared among all involved, fostering collaboration and maximising the community's preparedness and resilience. All participants are encouraged to respond to the scenario using their knowledge, skills, experience, capabilities, and insights.