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Civil contingencies

We are designated a Category 1 responder under the terms of the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. This means that we will take a primary role in response to emergency incidents. It covers:

  • risk assessments
  • emergency planning
  • business continuity planning
  • public information about civil protection
  • co-operation and information sharing with other local responders

Somerset County Council and the 4 district councils in Somerset formed a partnership known as the Somerset Local Authorities' Civil Contingencies Unit.

It is jointly funded and the partners work together to make sure there is a common approach across the county.

Local authorities help the emergency services in the first stages of a major emergency. We also provide temporary shelter to people might be temporarily homeless.

Once the first stage of a major emergency has passed, the local authorities play a leading role in recovery.

Information about Civil Contingencies and the responsibilities of responder agencies can be found at the Gov.uk website.

Further information about emergency planning in Somerset can be found at Somerset Prepared.