The Christian Emergency Network ReadyUK has issued a new resilience briefing encouraging churches across the United Kingdom to strengthen their emergency preparedness arrangements in response to potential threats, including severe flooding and terrorist attacks. The guidance, reported by the Religion Media Centre on 6 November 2026, urges church leaders to review their existing safety procedures and ensure that their buildings, leadership teams and congregations are prepared for unexpected emergencies. One of the central recommendations is that churches should maintain essential supplies capable of supporting people for up to 72 hours if normal services become disrupted. These include food, drinking water, lighting, warmth, communication equipment, money, medical supplies and access to important documents. The guidance also encourages churches to appoint a designated emergency and resilience lead who will coordinate preparations and help ensure that responsibilities are clearly understood.
The briefing further advises church leaders to maintain their buildings, secure important paper records and keys, communicate relevant government safety advice to congregations and establish reliable systems for contacting members during emergencies. Particular attention is given to vulnerable people who may require additional assistance, including older adults, individuals with disabilities and those who live alone. Churches frequently serve as important community centres, providing food assistance, pastoral care, youth activities and other support services. Consequently, emergencies such as flooding, severe storms, power outages and security incidents can affect not only church buildings but also the people who depend on these services. Having clear emergency procedures could help congregations respond more effectively, protect essential resources and provide practical assistance when normal community services are disrupted. The organisation’s recommendations also reflect wider concerns about natural disasters and technological disruptions, including cyber-attacks.
ReadyUK’s initiative highlights the importance of preparedness as part of responsible church leadership and community service. Churches may be called upon to assist individuals and families during periods of disruption, but they must also ensure that their own facilities and volunteers are adequately prepared. Appointing emergency coordinators, maintaining essential supplies and developing communication plans can help congregations respond more effectively when unexpected situations arise. The 72-hour recommendation is consistent with wider UK government emergency preparedness advice, which encourages households and communities to consider how they would manage if essential services such as electricity, water, transport and communications were temporarily unavailable. The guidance is not intended to create panic but to encourage sensible preparation. By taking these practical steps, churches can strengthen their ability to protect worshippers, support vulnerable members and continue serving their communities during difficult circumstances.
