The recovery phase

The first, perhaps the only, workshop to focus on communications during the recovery phase

The aim of this workshop is to progress planning for the communications-related aspects of the recovery/remediation phase of a major incident. The design of the workshop and exercise is such that the practices developed could apply to any situation.

Objectives

Find agreement on the structure for the multi-agency public communications group working during the recovery/remediation phase
Consider the facilities and resources necessary for the communications group to operate during the recovery phase
Explore best practice for communication and presentation of a proposed recovery strategy
Discuss the challenges associated with some of the issues likely to occur during this phase

Outcomes

An improved understanding of communications arrangements during the recovery phase
The preparation of guidelines for the effective operation of the public communications group during the recovery/remediation phase

Programme

Welcome and introductory session

An overview of the day
Exercise scenario briefing
A brief focus on the emergency phase

Debate and review: media cell structure and operations – agreeing best practice

Planning for the handover to the Recovery Co-ordinating Group

Guidance:

The Strategic Co-ordinating Group (SCG) perspective
The communications brief

Syndicate work: Development of the comms plan for this phase of the response.
Output: Presentation to the SCG on the comms plan for the handover and the immediate aftermath.

Session wash-up

Review of lessons learned
Guidance on best practice
Confirmation of arrangements to be documented in the plan

Communications during the initial phase of the recovery

Guidance:

The likely set-up during this phase and what that means for the PCG

Group exercise: working together as part of a multi-agency response during this phase.
Output: a draft comms strategy identifying audiences, messages, means of communication and measures of success
Debrief

Several weeks later

Guidance:

The likely RCG set-up in the longer-term
The work being done during this phase
The comms challenges – managing expectations

Syndicate work: some of the issues are summarised in a series of headlines and supporting information. The RCG has asked for your guidance on what simple (affordable!) actions should be taken to help address some of these concerns

Wash-up

This workshop has already been run successfully in Lothian and Borders and Central Scotland funded by the Scottish Government.

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The recovery phase

Programme