Blyth Town Council has been in contact with Northumberland County Council regarding the recent floods and they have provided the following useful information for residents and businesses affected.

Northumberland County Council is stepping up efforts to assist residents in their recovery. For those who have experienced internal flooding and need to clear out damaged furniture, white goods, or other household contents, the County Council is offering a free bulky waste collection service. This service is available to all residential properties that have suffered flood damage.

On the weekend of the 12th October, the County Council removed approximately seven loads of flood-damaged waste. Residents who wish to use this free service should contact the Council’s contact centre on 0345 600 6400. It is important to note that this service is intended for flood-damaged household items only. Waste generated by renovation works—such as floorboards, plasterboard, or doors—will not be accepted.

Housing and Financial Support

The  Town Council is also aware that some residents initially arranged their own temporary accommodation following the floods, but now find that these arrangements are not suitable for the longer term, especially as autumn and winter approach.  We have raised this with the County Council and they have informed that if any residents now require temporary accommodation, they are urged to contact the Council’s Housing Service through the same contact centre number: 0345 600 6400.

For those facing financial hardship due to the flooding, the County Council’s Communities First team is available to provide support, advice, and guidance. They work closely with trusted partners to assist residents struggling with financial difficulties, and they can also be reached by calling the contact centre.

Online Resources and Additional Support

The County Council's website offers a wide range of guidance and resources for those affected by flooding. More information on recovery support, including financial and housing advice, can be found on their webpage: Northumberland County Council Flood Advice.

In addition, several external resources are available for residents looking for advice on flood recovery:

• After a Flood - GOV.UK
• The Flood Hub Knowledge Hub
• FloodRe
• Blue Pages - Flood Protection Products
• National Flood Forum

Support for Flood-Affected Businesses

Businesses impacted by the floods are also being supported. The County Council’s Business Support team has been actively reaching out to businesses since last Friday to offer advice and guidance. Any businesses in need of assistance can contact the team via business@businessnorthumberland.co.uk or visit their website: Business Northumberland.

For further advice or assistance related to flood recovery, residents and businesses are encouraged to contact the Northumberland County Council contact centre on 0345 600 6400.

There is a commitment to helping the community recover and rebuild in the wake of this challenging situation.