Storm Henk Flood Victims Can Claim Thousands in Gov Bailout
Communities battered by Storm Henk between 2nd and 8th January can now apply for hefty government cash grants to aid their flood recovery.
Announced on 6 January 2024, this emergency financial support targets the worst-hit spots in England that faced severe, localised flooding.
Who Gets What? Flood Help Breakdown
- Flooded households: Up to £500 cash for urgent expenses.
- Heavily hit homes & businesses: 100% council tax and business rates relief for at least 3 months.
- Small to medium businesses: Up to £2,500 via the Business Recovery Grant to bounce back fast.
- Flood-hit property owners: Up to £5,000 from the Property Flood Resilience Repair Grant Scheme for flood-proofing.
- Farmers with uninsurable damage: Grants up to £25,000 from the Farming Recovery Fund to fix battered land.
Government Acts Fast With Flood Recovery Framework
This cash handout is part of the Flood Recovery Framework — a special scheme triggered only for exceptional flood disasters. Communities Secretary Michael Gove and Environment Secretary Steve Barclay unveiled the plan.
Thanks to swift Environment Agency moves and previous government flood defence funding, 45,000 homes were shielded from the worst of Storm Henk’s wrath. Teams worked relentlessly operating flood barriers, clearing waterways, and setting up temporary defences on the ground.
Top Officials Pledge Full Support to Flood Victims
Michael Gove: “If you’ve been affected by the recent severe flooding, you do not have to deal with it alone – we are providing financial help so you can recover as quickly as possible.”
“We know families and businesses are facing extreme challenges right now and we are doing all we can with our partners across central and local government to ensure communities are supported.”
Steve Barclay: “I know how difficult flooding is for those affected and we will do all we can to support households, farmers and other businesses as they repair and rebuild.”
“45,000 properties are already protected thanks to our flood defences, and I would like to pay tribute to Environment Agency teams, first responders, and others.”
“For those affected, our Property Flood Resilience Repair Grant Scheme will soon help residents protect their homes in future, while our Farming Recovery Fund supports farmers damaged by flooding as they work to put food on our tables.”
Since 2015, government investments have boosted flood defences to protect over 381,000 homes. This year, a record £5.2 billion is set to shield even more properties from flooding havoc.
Councils in the affected areas will soon release full details on how to apply and who qualifies for each scheme.
