UK legislation concerning culture and human rights

The UK’s Human Aspects in Emergency Management Guidance for supporting individuals affected by emergencies recognises that an emergency may involve diverse communities with different and specific needs and advice local responders and planners to identify the specific needs of communities who may be affected by an emergency in their area, taking into account factors such as culture, language and faith to ensure that services provided are suitable for all. Specifically, the Guidelines on the Need of Faith Communities in Major Emergencies states: To understand the needs of the different faith and belief communities in the event of a major incident, it is important to take into consideration specific features and requirements of the main faith and belief groups in relation to: language; diet including fasting; dress; physical contact, medical treatment, hospital stays, rest centres; daily acts of faith and major annual events; dying and death customs; resources (e.g. important texts, facilities communities can offer); names.

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Ethnicity, Customs/traditions/rituals

Hazards: Natural hazards

Disaster Phases: Response, Preparedness

Types of Actors Concerned: National civil protection body

Recommendations:

• Employ an overarching rights-based approach in disaster policies and operations