Churches Together in Cockermouth: after the floods

When serious floods hit West Cumbria in November 2009, Churches Together in Cockermouth mobilised quickly to help those affected. Members set up emergency reception centres providing food, warmth and rest, for residents who had lost everything and the emergency services. CTIC continues to offer a sustained lifeline to the community through an emergency café and services hub for residents cut off from the main part of town, free bus services, a food bank and Street Friends scheme for victims.

• CTIC's support helps floods victims to cope with their difficulties - thus reducing the likelihood of them needing more costly mental health intervention from the NHS.
• The work of CTIC volunteers has enabled statutory agencies to work more efficiently and target support more effectively.
• The thousands of hours given by CTIC and other volunteers equates to an economic contribution of hundreds of thousands of pounds.