Q. Why does RAPID UK not deploy to every natural disaster?

A. Whenever a disaster occurs anywhere in the world the Operations Committee makes an assessment of whether RAPID UK could make a positive contribution to saving lives. This decision is based on a number of factors including the type of disaster and the destruction that it has caused, our capabilities and our ability to get to the disaster zone in time to make a difference.

If the Operations Committee conclude that RAPID UK could save lives, a formal offer of assistance is made to the government of the country that has suffered the disaster. If the offer is not accepted we do not deploy. Our policy has always been that we will never self deploy and will never put ourselves in the disaster tourist bracket as much as we all want to help.

Q. Does RAPID UK receive any government funding?

A. In the past RAPID UK has received one-off grants and assistance in deploying to disasters from the British Government. It does not receive any routine official funding and therefore relies solely on public support and donations to enable it to carry out its vital life-saving work.

Q. Do I require any specialist qualifications to become a member of RAPID UK?

A. No. For both Operational & Support Members RAPID UK provides all the training that an individual requires to become a safe and competent member of the organisation. Of course the work that we do is physically and emotionally demanding and therefore our selection procedures for Operational Members are rigorous.

Q. Where is RAPID UK based?

A. RAPID UK’s Headquarters is on the outskirts of Gloucester within easy reach of the M5. RAPID UK’s members come from throughout the UK.

Q. How often does training take place?

A. Training takes place one weekend a month, normally the last full weekend of the month.

Q. I don’t feel able to commit to becoming a member of RAPID UK, is there any other way in which I can help?

A. Take a look at the How you can help section, if you would like to discuss ways in which you can help the organization please call the office on 01452 823233 or email: JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING