Council asks flood hit people with no computer to email

Framlingham was badly hit by flooding during storm Babet last year

A council has told flood hit residents without access to a computer to email requests for a grant application form.

The letter was sent to residents in Framlingham, Suffolk, who were affected by flooding during Storm Babet.

A local charity said it might be funny if it was not about a serious issue that might particularly affect older residents.

Suffolk County Council said a phone number was on the letter for anyone without a computer to get in touch.

It also included details of a web page link, which was broken, for the property flood resilience grant scheme online application form.

The grants of up to £5,000 are for anyone directly affected by internal property flooding because of Storm Babet in October 2023.

Suffolk County Council say a broken web page listed in the letter has been fixed and advised anyone without online access to telephone

The letter, seen by the BBC, stated: "If you are unable to access a computer to complete the online application please email [e-mail] and we will send you a paper form."

One resident, who did not wish to be named, told the BBC: "They heavily emphasise getting online to check out the resources, provide a broken link, and then ask you to email if you don't have a computer.

"Damned if you do, damned if you don't."

Nick Corke who runs local charity Hour Community, said assumptions that everyone has access to online is happening more regularly.

He said: "If it was not for the fact that it is a serious issue, it would be quite funny.

"This is sadly happening more and more to our elderly residents. I had one recently who was told that he could have an online consultation with his doctor. He replied, 'but I don't have a computer', to which the lady receptionist said, 'don't worry we can do it on your phone', to which he replied 'you will have a job, my phone is attached to the wall with a wire'."

"Without doubt there is a degree of discrimination going on against the older generation. I am not saying its deliberate, but it is happening and people need to be more aware and thoughtful," he added.

A Suffolk County Council spokesperson said a phone number is also on the letter and any residents who have any online access issues can call for further guidance.

The broken webpage link has also been rectified, he said.