Funding is available for victims of flooding

Three months ago, the country faced Storms Desmond and Eva, which caused devastating floods affecting thousands of homes and businesses. Northumberland was badly affected, with more than 250 homes and businesses flooded.

Those who were flooded can apply for a share of a dedicated £60million Property Level Resilience Scheme, to make their homes better protected well into the future.

Latest figures show hundreds of households across the county have already applied and the Communities Secretary Greg Clark said councils were on standby to take calls and provide advice, with a simple form available online so others don’t miss out.

Mr Clark said: “Northumberland was badly hit by Storms Desmond and Eva – three months on, we remain as determined as ever to help communities continue to get back on their feet.

“That’s why we launched a dedicated fund, so as people start making repairs to their properties they can also use the latest measures and technology to leave their homes and businesses better protected for the future.

“We’ve already had hundreds of applications from across Northumberland and I would urge every affected household across the county to apply so they don’t miss out on this floods support.

“This includes some innovative housing associations and individuals who manage a large number of homes, putting in joint applications to prepare all their properties for any future floods”.

Under the Property Level Resilience Scheme, grants of up to £5,000 are available for each household and business flooded by Storm Desmond or Eva, to help make properties more resilient to future flooding.

Money can be spent on measures such as: Moving electrical sockets higher up the wall; installing flood doors; waterproofing windows; and replacing standard kitchen units with water-resistant alternatives.

Affected households and businesses can apply for the funding through a form via Northumberland County Council’s website.