CERT - Community Emergency Response Team - UK

CERT - Community Emergency Response Team - UK Supported 57,000+ affected homes & businesses since 2015 across 14 Counties in England, N.Ireland & S Roads and bridges still remain closed. We will.

Cumbria has been severely hit by storm after storm since the 5th December 2015. The amount of surface water is abundant and the ground has not been able to recover. Many homes have been destroyed (6000+) and 1500+ Business also. Leaving people, including children & the elderly very vulnerable. Around 54% of those affected in Cumbria do not have insurance as they are either uninsurable or are price

d out of insurance. Of the remainder, a large amount have £10,000 excess or more. Also, it is coming to light that a lot of insurance companies are looking for a way out of paying out those who have been affected and voiding their policies. This is close to my heart as living in this beautiful county I can't sit back and see those living in it, struggle when I myself have been spared. People need help and support to get back to normal and we can do this by supporting them in whatever way we can. Be it cleaning out their home, supplying them with food or cleaning products. Help them with the supply of items lost due to the floods or just be there for moral support. Community Emergency Response Team (Formerly Eden Flood Volunteers) continue to support those affected by the floods. where we can provide volunteers and transport to pack up homes and move people. We will provide as many persons as possible with the goods which they need to move forward with their lives. These could be towels, bedding or crockery, furniture or equipment. Supporters are already seeing the difference that our service has made to them in their lives. Also, going forward they will continue to see this online, in the media and local & national press. AS OF 31ST AUGUST 2017 WE LOST OUR FACILITIES WHICH WERE PROVIDED BY CUMBRIA COUNTY COUNCIL, THIS IS IS A TRAGEDY FOR ALL THOSE IN CUMBRIA WHO FIND THEMSELVES IN CRISIS. FOR NOW WE WILL RUN QUIETLY IN THE BACKGROUND, WHILST TRYING TO LOCATE PREMISES, THE CONTACT ADDRESS FOR OUR OFFICE IS MORE FOR TELEPHONE AND EMAIL SUPPORT. WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND PATIENCE.

In the aftermath of Storm Desmond, when homes were underwater, communities were cut off, and many people faced uncertain...
26/05/2026

In the aftermath of Storm Desmond, when homes were underwater, communities were cut off, and many people faced uncertainty and loss, CERT (UK) stepped forward to help.

Originally formed as Eden Flood Volunteers during the devastating floods of 2015, CERT (UK) was built by local people determined to support local people when they needed it most. What began as a grassroots response during one of Cumbria’s most difficult periods has since grown into a respected charity committed to community resilience, compassion, and practical support. 🌧️➡️🌤️

During the floods, volunteers worked tirelessly to support affected residents through welfare checks, practical assistance, emotional support, and community coordination. It was never simply about logistics. It was about humanity, dignity, and ensuring nobody felt abandoned during crisis.

When the COVID-19 pandemic arrived years later, CERT (UK) once again adapted rapidly to meet the needs of vulnerable people across the community.

The charity delivered:

• Shopping and essential supplies
• Prescription collection and delivery
• Befriending and welfare support for isolated individuals
• Community reassurance during an incredibly uncertain time

For many people living alone, shielding, or struggling emotionally, sometimes a simple phone call or doorstep conversation meant the world. ☎️💙

Today, CERT (UK) continues to evolve while staying true to its original ethos of “people supporting people.”

The charity now provides ongoing support to members of the Armed Forces Community and Blue Light Services who may be facing hardship or crisis situations, including:

• Financial hardship support
• Homelessness and housing support
• Assistance for individuals fleeing domestic violence
• Welfare and advocacy support
• Community connection and peer support
• Support to the Penrith Armed Forces, Veterans & Blue Light Breakfast Club (AFVBC)

The Penrith AFVBC has become far more than just a breakfast club. It provides camaraderie, belonging, friendship, laughter, peer support, and a safe space for veterans, serving personnel, Blue Light Services, and families to reconnect with others who understand. 🍳☕🇬🇧

CERT (UK) has received recognition for its community work and continued commitment to supporting others during times of crisis and adversity.

Its Founder and Director, Kerryanne Wilde, has also been recognised for her longstanding dedication to community support, volunteering, Armed Forces advocacy, and grassroots leadership across Cumbria and Lancashire. Her work alongside an incredible network of volunteers and supporters continues to make a meaningful difference to the lives of many people who may otherwise feel forgotten.

In a world where many people are struggling quietly behind closed doors, organisations like CERT (UK) remind us that compassion, community spirit, and human connection still matter enormously.

📍 CERT (UK)
Registered Charity Number: 1166201

📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 Facebook: CERT (UK)
🌐 Website: www.certuk.org.uk

If you would like to support, volunteer, collaborate, or learn more about the work being delivered, please get in touch. Every conversation, every act of kindness, and every bit of support helps strengthen communities and change lives. 💙

AFTERNOON ALLFollowing 2 x referrals from WWTW, I've been able to secure the following in conjunction with Sainsbury's P...
19/04/2026

AFTERNOON ALL

Following 2 x referrals from WWTW, I've been able to secure the following in conjunction with Sainsbury's Penrith and CERT - Community Emergency Response Team - UK to provide a 7-10day food pack for to single veterans struggling financially, until DWP is sorted and they are back on their feet.

On top of the items in the picture £20 will be provided per veteran to purchase the following fresh and frozen items also:

1kg bag frozen chicken breasts
12 fresh sausages
14 slices cooked ham
Frikadela burgers or meatballs
2.5kg wonky potatoes
1.5kg wonky carrots
1kg wonky onions
4 baking potatoes
Tub spreadable butter
Loaf of bread

Thank you to all who support and to Sainsbury's for their continued support.

Our latest funding came from Cllr Mike Eyles and we're truly grateful for this.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Cllr Mike Eyles for his incredibly generous donation of £1,000 to CERT (UK) ...
05/04/2026

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Cllr Mike Eyles for his incredibly generous donation of £1,000 to CERT (UK) in January, in support of the Armed Forces Community across the Eden area.

This contribution has already made a meaningful and immediate impact. The funding has helped provide breakfasts at the Penrith Armed Forces, Veterans and Blue Light Breakfast Club, supported ex-forces individuals facing homelessness with essential food parcels and clothing, and enabled the purchase of new banners for both our Breakfast and Lunch Clubs.

Support like this truly makes a difference on the ground, helping us continue to provide vital assistance and create welcoming spaces for those who have served.
Thank you once again, Mike, for your kindness and ongoing support.

You can also follow on Instagram to see more.
09/01/2026

You can also follow on Instagram to see more.

CERT (UK) – A Decade of Selfless Service: A Commemorative Tribute 10th Year AnniversaryTen years ago, CERT (UK) began as...
10/12/2025

CERT (UK) – A Decade of Selfless Service: A Commemorative Tribute 10th Year Anniversary

Ten years ago, CERT (UK) began as a small group of determined individuals with a shared vision — to stand ready when their communities needed them most. Storm Desmond had hit the NW in ways which were thought would never happen again. What started as a handful of volunteers with a passion for preparedness has grown into a trusted, highly skilled network of people who have become a lifeline in times of crisis.

From the early days, when training sessions were held in borrowed halls and equipment was scarce, to the present, where CERT (UK) teams are recognised for their professionalism and reliability, the journey has been one of perseverance, learning, and unity. Along the way, volunteers have faced floods that swept through towns, storms that left communities in darkness, and public health emergencies that tested the resilience of the nation. In each challenge, they have been there — not only with practical aid, but with the calm reassurance that comes from knowing someone cares.

There are countless moments etched into CERT (UK)’s history:

✅ The night a small team worked through driving rain to help evacuate families from rising floodwaters.

✅ The days spent delivering supplies to isolated residents during severe winter weather.

✅ The quiet hours spent checking on vulnerable neighbours, ensuring no one was left alone in difficult times.

These stories, though often untold, are the heartbeat of CERT (UK). They speak of courage without fanfare, of teamwork without ego, and of service without expectation of reward.

The past decade has also been about building — not just skills and resources, but trust. Communities have come to know CERT (UK) as a dependable presence, a group that will show up when it matters most.

Volunteers have forged bonds with local authorities, emergency services, and residents, creating a network of support that strengthens the fabric of society.

As we celebrate this milestone, we honour every volunteer — past and present — who has given their time, energy, and compassion. Their dedication has saved lives, brought comfort, and inspired others to step forward and serve.

Looking ahead, CERT (UK) carries forward the lessons of the past ten years with renewed purpose. The challenges of the future are unknown, but the commitment remains the same: to be ready, to be present, and to stand together for the safety and wellbeing of all.

This is more than an anniversary. It is a testament to what can be achieved when ordinary people unite with extraordinary dedication — and a promise that the next chapter will be written with the same courage, compassion, and unwavering resolve.




Amazing Evening listening and watching the at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh.
13/09/2025

Amazing Evening listening and watching the at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh.

CERT (UK) Honoured with Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award 2025A Testament to Dedication: Commemorating Service, S...
07/09/2025

CERT (UK) Honoured with Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award 2025

A Testament to Dedication: Commemorating Service, Support, and Community Engagement

It is with immense pride and gratitude that CERT (UK) announces its success in being awarded the prestigious Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for 2025. This outstanding recognition not only celebrates our organisational commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, but also stands as a testament to the values and ethos that underpin our approach to responsible and proactive community engagement.

Understanding the Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award
The ERS Silver Award is conferred upon employers who have demonstrated exceptional support for the Armed Forces community. This includes cadets, reservists, veterans, and military families, all of whom contribute immeasurably to the strength and diversity of our workplaces and the nation as a whole. To achieve Silver status, organisations must go beyond the basic requirements of the Armed Forces Covenant, exemplifying a culture of respect, flexibility, and opportunity.

For CERT (UK), receiving this award is not merely a milestone; it is a reflection of the ongoing journey to build a culture where service, commitment, and shared values are championed at every level.

Our Commitment to the Armed Forces Community
CERT (UK) has long been a proud and proactive supporter of the wider Armed Forces Community. From tailored employment policies to ongoing engagement with reservists, cadets, and veterans, our efforts are woven into the fabric of our organisation’s daily life.
• Cadets: We actively engage with youth cadet organisations, fostering opportunities for skills development, leadership, and practical experience. By nurturing the talents and aspirations of cadets, we hope to inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators.
• Reservists: CERT (UK) recognises the unique demands placed upon reservists and provides robust support structures—including flexible working arrangements and paid leave for training—so they can fulfil their dual commitments to both the nation and their civilian careers.
• Veterans: Our recruitment and retention strategies are designed to leverage the diverse experiences of veterans, ensuring they are welcomed, valued, and have access to meaningful opportunities for growth and advancement within our organisation.

Our pledge is not limited to policies on paper; it is lived out through daily actions, compassionate leadership, and a genuine appreciation for the skills, values, and perspectives that members of the Armed Forces community bring to our team.

The Path to Silver: Building a Culture of Inclusion and Respect
Achieving the ERS Silver Award in 2025 was the culmination of years of dedicated effort. We have worked collaboratively to develop an environment that not only meets but exceeds the expectations set out by the Ministry of Defence. Some of the key initiatives that underpinned our success include:

• Championing the Armed Forces Covenant: CERT (UK) has publicly committed to upholding the Armed Forces Covenant and has consistently demonstrated this through transparent reporting and community partnerships.
• Developing Flexible HR Policies: Our HR team has implemented comprehensive frameworks to support reservists and veterans, including additional leave for mobilisations, mentorship programmes, and tailored re-integration plans upon return from deployment.
• Promoting Awareness and Understanding: Through regular internal training, open forums, and employee resource groups, we strive to foster an inclusive culture where the contributions of the Armed Forces community are recognised and celebrated.
• Celebrating Service: From Armed Forces Day commemorations to Remembrance activities, CERT (UK) ensures that service and sacrifice are formally acknowledged and deeply respected within our organisational culture.

Stories of Impact: The Human Element
Behind every award is a tapestry of individual stories and achievements. Whether it is a reservist balancing duties, a veteran finding a new professional pathway, or a cadet discovering their potential, CERT (UK) is dedicated to empowering each member of our community.

Take, for example, a reservist who, with the full support of their manager and colleagues, was able to participate in critical national security training without fear of hindering their civilian career progression. Or the veteran who, given the right mentorship and development opportunities, flourished in a new leadership role, bringing invaluable perspective and resilience to their team.
Such examples are not exceptions—they are the norm within CERT (UK). These stories illuminate the broader impact of our policies and the unwavering commitment to nurturing talent, integrity, and service.

Looking Ahead: Renewed Promise and Continuous Improvement
While we are honoured to receive the ERS Silver Award, we view this recognition not as the culmination of our journey, but as a call to further action. The changing needs of the Armed Forces community require adaptive strategies and a willingness to listen, learn, and evolve. In the coming years, CERT (UK) pledges to:

• Expand veteran recruitment and support with transition programmes
• Increase support for military partners and families
• Strengthen partnerships with regional and national Armed Forces organisations
• Enhance professional development opportunities for cadets and reservists
• Continue raising awareness within our workforce of the unique challenges and strengths of the Armed Forces

We believe that these efforts, underpinned by our core values of respect, integrity, and service, will continue to make CERT (UK) an employer of choice for those who serve or have served.

Conclusion: Shared Success and Community Spirit
The Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award 2025 is a shared achievement, made possible by the commitment of every member of CERT (UK) to uphold the spirit of the Armed Forces Covenant.

We extend our deepest appreciation to our reservists, veterans, cadets and their families, who inspire us daily to strive for excellence and to build a more inclusive and supportive workplace.
As we celebrate this important milestone, CERT (UK) reaffirms its ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces community. Together, we look forward to a future defined by partnership, understanding, and mutual respect.

Let us move ahead with renewed purpose, confident in the knowledge that by honouring those who serve, we strengthen not only our organisation, but the communities we are privileged to serve.

Address

35 West Lane
Penrith
CA103LT

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 4pm
Tuesday 10am - 5pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 10am - 5pm

Telephone

+447525184422

Website

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