UK legislation concerning vulnerable groups

Under the UK’s Human Aspects in Emergency Management Guidance, there is a requirement “to consider and plan for the specific needs of vulnerable individuals during and after an emergency.” The category of individuals considered here include but not limited to: “older people and their carers; those with disabilities and their carers; children and their carers; pregnant women; those with serious or chronic illnesses (including asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, cancer, mental illness); those whose first language is not English.”

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Norms/values, Gender roles, Age-related roles, Ethnicity

Hazards: Natural hazards, Man-made non-intentional hazards or emergency situations

Disaster Phases: Preparedness, Response

Types of Actors Concerned: National civil protection body

Recommendations:

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