UK government's emergency prep campaign puts burden on individuals rather than systemic change

A Guardian columnist argues the UK's Prepare campaign inappropriately shifts responsibility for disaster readiness to households while the government simultaneously pursues policies that increase climate and infrastructure risks.

First covered Oct 7, 2026 · 10:00 PM PT · 1 article · no longer in the live window

UK government's emergency prep campaign puts burden on individuals rather than systemic change — Image via theguardian.com

Coverage

34d Guardian Environment Stockpile food – and wash your hands: is that really how to prepare for environmental catastrophe? | George Monbiot — The UK state is dumping its responsibilities on our doorsteps, while green-lighting policies that lead us closer to crisis Would you mind fixing the NHS?

Primary sources

assets.publishing.service.gov.uk Farming And Food Partnership Board Joint Statement 19 May 2026 (assets.publishing.service.gov.uk)

cms.int Avian Influenza 2023 Aug (cms.int)

prepare.campaign.gov.uk Animal and plant health - Prepare

More coverage from around the web

hansard.parliament.uk Emergency Preparedness - Hansard - UK Parliament

committees.parliament.uk Anthony Thompson

lbc.co.uk Don’t assume help will come: Brits warned to prepare for emergencies without power, water or phones

theconversation.com The government wants households to prepare for disaster

hansard.parliament.uk Preparedness for National Emergencies - Hansard - UK Parliament

Appeared in: 2026-10-09 (#13)

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