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To: From: David Robinson Matthew Swindells Neil Permain Approved by: Stephen Groves Pauline Philip Steve Powis Keith Willett Bob Winter Ian Dalton Jeremy Marlow

Date: Friday 1 June 2018

Launch of Heatwave Plan for England

Purpose of submission / Issue

To advise on the launch of this year’s Heatwave Plan for England and associated activities for EPRR.

Background

A heat-health watch alert system operates in England from 1 June to 15 September each year. During this period, the Met Office may forecast heatwaves, as defined by forecasts of day and night-time temperatures and their duration and issue alerts as follows:

System response to increased heat levels

During periods of increased heat, NHS organisations (along with all other Category One providers) are required to take actions to respond to the increased temperatures including:

 Participation in local multi agency working  Actions to reduce indoor heat exposure  Take particular care of at risk/vulnerable population groups  Preparedness of the system through staff training and planning, appropriate healthcare and the physical environment

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 Engaging with communities  Communicate with the public

NHS England Arrangements

NHS England EPRR team will the Met Office Heatwave alert levels throughout the period of the plan and ensure NHS organisations are taking any necessary actions to respond to increased heat levels and maintain services.

NHS England continues to work with PHE and other government departments to maintain a proactive response to any identified pressures during potential extreme weather.

Recommendation

You are advised to note this briefing and the Heatwave Plan for England which contains further discussion relevant to hot weather planning.

If any further information is required, please do not hesitate to contact me via the NHS England (National) EPRR mailbox: [email protected]

Link to Heatwave Plan for England and supporting information: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/heatwave-plan-for-england

Copy: Tom Easterling Ninjeri Pandit Nicky Murphy Caitlin Bush Sandra Manu Simon Enright James Lyons Andrew Wilkinson Robin Firth Jonathan Brown Kathy Mclean Andy Hindhaugh Ruth May Ash Canavan NHS England Communications NHS England EPRR Team NHS England Regional Heads of EPRR DHSC EPRR Team UEC Operations NHS England Business Continuity

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