Storm Henk: Flood-hit residents in Herefordshire may get grants

Heavy rain during Storm Henk led to car rescues and road closures in Herefordshire

Residents whose homes were flooded during Storm Henk could get grants to help them recover, a council has said.

Large parts of England and Wales experienced strong winds and heavy rain during last month's storm and hundreds of homes were flooded.

Herefordshire Council said "significant flooding" left about 60 homes affected internally and owners are being advised to apply for the government funding.

The Community Recovery Grant offers households £500 for immediate costs.

Meanwhile, small to medium-sized businesses can apply for £2,500 from the Business Recovery Grant.

Residents and businesses may also be eligible for council tax discounts and business rate relief, the council said.

The deadline for applications is 15 March.

Support for farmers

During a 48-hour period from 07:00 on 2 January, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said it carried out 26 rescues from vehicles in water, and attended 14 incidents of flooding.

"Herefordshire experienced significant flooding as a result of Storm Henk," said Philip Price, county council cabinet member for transport and infrastructure.

He urged people to look up information on the council website about funds available through the Flood Recovery Framework.

"If you believe you qualify for support please use our single online application form and we will then assess your application as soon as possible," he urged owners.

Farmers who suffered uninsurable damage to their land will later be able to apply for up to £25,000 through the Rural Payments Agency.

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