Mapping Flood Disadvantage in Scotland 2015: Research Findings

Recommendations

For local authorities, mapped flood disadvantage provides a useful framework for planning actions in anticipation of the increased risk of flooding (e.g. redevelopment that alters the use of the ground floor to minimise damage if a flood happens) and developing recovery strategies in the aftermath of flooding (e.g. targeting financial assistance to groups least likely to have flood insurance).

The information on the concentrations of neighbourhoods characterised by acute and extreme flood disadvantage can provide additional information to support the implementation of Flood Risk Management Strategies for Local Plan Districts. The dataset may also be used in future flood risk management to inform actions such as the provision and method of delivery of flood warnings and flood prevention schemes.

The spatial distribution of flood disadvantage can be used to support or evaluate decisions made on flood risk investment. The areas requiring particular attention are the acute and extreme disadvantage in coastal and urban areas, and reducing the risks associated with physical and social isolation of communities in remote towns and rural areas.

It is recommended that local authorities collaborate with third sector organisations (in particular in remote rural areas, but also in inner-city areas) to increase the self-help potential of the communities, facilitate development of social networks and provide support in the case of flooding.

Raising awareness of flooding and actions to be taken among landlords and tenants is needed as the private rented sector continues to grow.

The extensive set of indicators compiled in the vulnerability assessment may be used by various agencies and departments to identify areas for actions unrelated to flooding yet aiming at improving social equity and quality of life.

Future research could focus on developing more direct indicators of social vulnerability to flooding; exploring the future dimension of vulnerability alongside climate projections; and investigating localised, fine-grained variability in social vulnerability to flooding and flood disadvantage. Mapping the provision of emergency services, rest centres and other social infrastructure that could be used in response to flooding and in the recovery phase would offer additional layers of information.