RESIDENTS are being encouraged to take part in a pilot scheme being rolled out across east Swindon to tackle the risk of flooding.

Swindon is one of six towns and cities which have been cherry picked for the project which, if successful, will be carried out across the rest of the country. The scheme is being funded by Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs.

It will involve residents learning how to combat some of the major risks imposed by flooding by establishing groups to discuss each area’s individual requirements.

There will also be a variety of events being run by the National Flood Forum, the project’s organisers, to highlight key things to do in a flood situation.

Advice includes packing a dry bag full of essentials, including insurance information, passports and photographs.

“People can have big roles and can have a big affect in their area when it comes to flooding,” said Grace Martin, who is a community flood resilience officer.

“It can be a very traumatic experience for people – they can feel very lost and hopeless if they are involved in a flood.

“These groups will help people prepare for what to do. And then they can share their experience.”

The organisation also hopes to develop a network of Community Flood Champions to work across Swindon targeting areas of social and financial deprivation.

New College will be running an e-learning package and there could also be foundation courses being organised in flood management.

The last major flood in east Swindon was in Covingham and Dorcan in 2007 but Grace said it is important that people take a proactive approach now towards risks to ensure that when another large downpour hits, people are ready, “People tend to be very reactive in their approach rather than proactive,” said Grace, aged 22.

“This is about getting people to think about reducing their own risk factor.”

By the end of the scheme in 2015 it is hoped that communities will be empowered enough to proactively manage flood risk and minimise the impact of the incident.

The first event to be hosted by the National Flood Forum will be at the Park South Community Hall in Cranmore Avenue on December 7 between 10am to 2pm.