Dorset volunteers benefit from SSEN flood support funding

The Wessex Flood Rescue team with the kit and boat purchased through funding from SSEN's Powering Communities to Net Zero fund. <i>(Image: Wessex Flood Rescue)</i>
The Wessex Flood Rescue team with the kit and boat purchased through funding from SSEN's Powering Communities to Net Zero fund. (Image: Wessex Flood Rescue)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A volunteer flood rescue team has enhanced its emergency response capabilities with a £11,500 funding boost for vital equipment.

Dorset-based Wessex Flood Rescue was one of 32 successful applicants in central southern England to receive support through the 2025 round of Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks' (SSEN) Powering Communities to Net Zero (PCNZ) fund.

The SSEN funding has enabled the team to purchase a new rescue boat, flood raft, safety helmets and additional responder training to support callouts in dangerous weather conditions.

READ MORE: Chris Packham backs Wimborne’s screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing

The Wessex Flood Rescue team with the kit and boat purchased through funding from SSEN's Powering Communities to Net Zero fund. (Image: Wessex Flood Rescue)

Hayley Joynson, SSEN’s head of operations for the Wessex area, said: "We’re proud to support Wessex Flood Rescue through our Powering Communities to Net Zero fund and help its team of volunteers to invest in vital rescue equipment and training."

The funding comes during one of the team’s busiest years on record, including significant flooding incidents earlier this year.

Andy Edwards from Wessex Flood Rescue said: "The new kit is already being put to use, and we have had a busy period recently with both callouts and training.

"SSEN’s support goes a long way in helping us continue responding when communities need us."

Applications for the latest round of the SSEN fund have now closed.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos