HOUSEHOLDERS across Shropshire are being urged to check in on their older friends, family and neighbours as flooding continues to affect large parts of the region

With nearly 50 flood alerts in place, four of them at the highest ‘severe – danger to life’ level, Shropshire Telford & Wrekin Age UK say older people are particularly vulnerable, with more heavy rain and high winds expected this week, leading to significant river and surface water flooding is expected.

Heather Osborne, chief executive of Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, is hoping that people will check in on elderly neighbours during the poor weather.

“Older people can be left at significant risk during floods, storms or power cuts and it’s vital that they aren’t forgotten,” she said.

To find out if you or a friend, family member or neighbour is at risk, enter your postcode at the government Flood Information Service website.

Age UK have issued advice for how to be prepared for the floods, including preparing a bag that includes medicines and insurance documents, check flood warnings, turn off gas, water and electricity, and move things, such as family, pets and the car upstairs or to safety.

Always call 999 if in immediate danger and follow advice from emergency services to keep yourself and your family safe.

You can also call Shropshire Council on 0345 678 9006 if you think your issue is an emergency and Telford & Wrekin Council can be reached on 01952 380000.

More advice can be accessed by calling the 24-hour information line on 0345 988 1188 (0345 602 6340 for a Type Talk service for those with hearing loss).

You can also sign-up for personalised flood warnings to be alerted by phone, email or text when flooding is expected. Flood warnings and alerts are not available in all areas.