Abstract
Aim: To address gaps in emergency planning and preparedness by developing strategies and interventions to apply the concept of vulnerability in a range of policy and practice contexts.
Explanation: Vulnerability to crises and disasters arises from a complex interplay of factors extending beyond a person’s individual characteristics or demographics. Understanding and addressing vulnerabilities is essential for supporting individuals and communities. By operationalising the concept of vulnerability, emergency planning and response can become more efficient, equitable, and proactive, reducing risks and ensuring more effective
protection for those most “at risk”.
Context: In the UK, and other countries, central government, local authorities, first responders, public agencies, Local Resilience Forums (LRFs), data scientists, Voluntary and Community Sector Organisations (VCSOs), and community organisations need practical solutions to efficiently identify and support vulnerable individuals and communities. Applying the concept of vulnerability will enable them to focus their decision-making, time, and resources more effectively and equitably. More targeted planning and preparedness,
could in turn, improve the effectiveness of emergency response and recovery efforts.
Concept: The conceptual framework of Layers of Vulnerability (see figure 1) refers to the complex intersectionality and interconnectivity of individual, community, institutional, systemic, digital, and environmental factors that compound the burdens and barriers to emergency planning and preparedness. As these layers come into play, individuals and communities face intersecting disadvantages, leading to disproportionately higher risks and potentially worse outcomes compared to others. Highlighting layers of vulnerability also highlights where there is potential to implement mitigation strategies in advance and build resilience.
Explanation: Vulnerability to crises and disasters arises from a complex interplay of factors extending beyond a person’s individual characteristics or demographics. Understanding and addressing vulnerabilities is essential for supporting individuals and communities. By operationalising the concept of vulnerability, emergency planning and response can become more efficient, equitable, and proactive, reducing risks and ensuring more effective
protection for those most “at risk”.
Context: In the UK, and other countries, central government, local authorities, first responders, public agencies, Local Resilience Forums (LRFs), data scientists, Voluntary and Community Sector Organisations (VCSOs), and community organisations need practical solutions to efficiently identify and support vulnerable individuals and communities. Applying the concept of vulnerability will enable them to focus their decision-making, time, and resources more effectively and equitably. More targeted planning and preparedness,
could in turn, improve the effectiveness of emergency response and recovery efforts.
Concept: The conceptual framework of Layers of Vulnerability (see figure 1) refers to the complex intersectionality and interconnectivity of individual, community, institutional, systemic, digital, and environmental factors that compound the burdens and barriers to emergency planning and preparedness. As these layers come into play, individuals and communities face intersecting disadvantages, leading to disproportionately higher risks and potentially worse outcomes compared to others. Highlighting layers of vulnerability also highlights where there is potential to implement mitigation strategies in advance and build resilience.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Place of Publication | Kingston upon Thames, U.K. |
| Publisher | Kingston University |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - May 2025 |