DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer:
Councils must plan ahead for emergencies and act quickly when they occur. This means carrying out risk assessments, working with partner agencies through Local Resilience Forums, and creating detailed emergency plans that are regularly tested and updated. When a crisis happens—such as severe weather, major accidents, or health emergencies—councils must implement these plans to protect public safety, maintain essential services like water, power, and transport, and provide support for vulnerable people. The goal is to ensure communities are prepared for emergencies and can recover quickly and safely.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Corporate services
Community planning
Duty type
Organisational
Social determinant of health
Neighbourhood and environment
Emerging policy and legislation
0
Bodies with shared interest
Scottish Resilience Partnership
Standards and frameworks
4