Rest centres
Rest centres enable people’s needs to be assessed during an incident such as a flood, and in extreme cases they can provide basic amenity for people who have evacuated their homes, for example by providing meals or overnight accommodation.
Assessments
Two types of assessment will be carried out for anyone sheltered at a rest centre:
Housing options assessment
This involves considering all of the housing options that may be available for a flood victim, including emergency accommodation and subsequently longer-term housing options. This process works alongside the adult social care assessment, to address any vulnerabilities. (This is the responsibility of Elmbridge Borough Council.)
Adult social care assessment
This process involves assessing the specific needs of any flood victim who may be identified as vulnerable or is previously known to the multi-agency services already assisting them. (This is the responsibility of Surrey County Council.)
Access to services
It is then the responsibility of Adult Social Care to ensure these individuals may access specific and suitable support, including necessary medication and health professionals. This will also include placing flood victims into residential care, if this level of care is needed.
A rest centre is intended to provide short term shelter only. Elmbridge Borough Council’s community transport team will be able to assist with moving people to more suitable, long term accommodation.
Rest centre locations
Rest centres are chosen based on the extent and nature of the incident at the time. People on the ground will be there to support you and direct you to a rest centre if needed. You can also check this website and social media for details. (MyElmbridge on Facebook and @ElmbridgeBC on Twitter)