Emergency planning is the process of preparing for unexpected events that could impact the safety and wellbeing of students and staff in educational and childcare settings. This includes creating plans to respond to various emergencies, such as public health incidents, severe weather, or other crises. The Department of Education have created guidance on Emergency planning and response for education, childcare, and children’s social care settings.
Adverse weather
The Adverse Weather and Health Plan aims to protect individuals and communities from the health effects of adverse weather and to build community resilience. This is supported by the governments guidance and advice on Hot Weather and Health.
To sign up to the weather- health alerting system for both cold and heat complete this short MS Form: Weather-Health Alerting system registration form
Specific cold health guidance for those working with children
Cold weather can have a significant impact on children's health, particularly for babies, young children, and those with underlying health conditions. The guidance below provides practical advice on supporting vulnerable children and families during periods of cold weather and helps settings prepare for and respond to cold-related health risks.
Supporting vulnerable people before and during cold weather - GOV.UK
Specific heat health guidance for those working with children
Hot weather can affect children's health and wellbeing, increasing the risk of dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses. The guidance below outlines steps that schools, early years settings, and childcare providers can take to help children stay safe and healthy during periods of high temperatures.
Heat summary - for teachers working with vulnerable people and children - GOV.UK
Climate Change and Changing Weather Patterns
Climate change is affecting weather patterns across the UK, leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves, heavy rainfall, storms, and periods of extreme weather. These changes can impact the health, wellbeing, and safety of children, young people, and staff in education and childcare settings. Understanding the potential risks and preparing for changing weather conditions can help settings build resilience and respond effectively to future challenges.
The Met Office provides information on how the climate is changing, the impacts this may have, and the actions individuals and organisations can take to adapt and prepare.