Building Resilience in Communities (BRIC) is a social innovation project working to equip communities with the tools they need to respond to surface water flooding in Plymouth.
By encouraging people to change their behaviours around water use, we believe we can build climate and flood resilient communities throughout the city. Surface water flooding is highly affected by climate change - wetter weather means more floods, especially in highly urbanised areas with limited permeable green space.
Through sustained engagement with communities throughout Plymouth, and the creation of resources such as our Slowing the Flow booklet, our mission is to promote water saving methods and behaviours that benefit people and planet.
BRIC phase 3 runs from April 2025 until March 2027, and is funded by the Local Flood Levy, administered by the South West Regional Flood and Coastal Committee (SWRFCC).
Information about phase 1 and 2 of BRIC can be found on the following pages:
Building Resilience in Communities (BRIC) phase 1
Building Resilience in Communities (BRIC) phase 2
Project Aims
- Provide regular training opportunities and ongoing support for volunteer Community Flood Responders (CFRs) throughout the city
- Support the creation of several Climate Pioneer Streets in flood risk areas. Climate Pioneer Streets are focused on localised community resilience towards flooding and climate change.
- Promote the Adopt a Drain scheme across the city
- Distribute and promote BRIC resources, such as the Slowing the Flow booklet
- Deliver a city-wide “Slow the Flow” campaign with information resources, activities and local events
- Create and deliver a flood awareness programme for local schools
- Develop and issue Digital Badges for our volunteers
- Create twice-yearly physical newsletters, distributed to flood risk areas
Get Involved
Community Flood Responders
BRIC are looking for volunteers to be part of a network of Community Flood Responders (CFRs). In this role, you’ll take small actions to help your community prepare for flooding and play a key part in taking action if there is a flood. You’ll be a valued and essential link between your community and Plymouth City Council, helping us all become more resilient to flooding and climate change.
We hold semi-regular training workshops for this role both online and in-person.
If you are interested in getting involved, send us an email at [email protected] with the subject line "Community Flood Responder".
Adopt a Drain
Did you know that you can help keep your local community clean and safe by adopting a drain? You would be joining 16 residents who have already signed up to ensure that a drain cover in their neighbourhood is kept free of leaves and rubbish. We’ll also provide you with safety tips and you can claim a free Digital Badge in recognition of your volunteering effort.
If you’re interested, send us an email at [email protected] with the subject line “Adopt a Drain”.
Resources
You can contact the team at [email protected] or reach out to us on social media.