Community Emergency Hubs
A Community Emergency Hub, as part of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) initiative, is a designated physical location within a community that serves as the focal point for coordination and assistance during and immediately following an emergency. This hub is organised, set up, and run by members of the community, with official support as necessary from the local authority, BLEVEC volunteer partnership, and other emergency responders.
It is a place for a community to coordinate its own efforts to help each other during and after a disruption such as a flood or loss of power. A Community Emergency Hub is run by the community, for the community so it is formed and operated by local people who turn up. A hub may open spontaneously or with encouragement from emergency responders. You may also hear these being called Assistance Centres or Rest Centres.
The purpose of a Community Emergency Hub is to provide a safe, known location, where community members can go for information, guidance, and mutual assistance during and after emergencies. The hub serves as a central point for managing resources, including the distribution of donations, and for coordinating volunteer efforts. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in the recovery and renewal phase, providing a space where community rebuilding efforts can be coordinated.
The Community Emergency Hub has the objectives to:
- provide information and advice to the community
- focus the community response on using what is available to give the most help
- match peoples’ needs with offers of help
- provide a safe and supportive gathering place
- connect the community with us and emergency services