REACT Disaster Response: UK Operations Update

REACT Disaster Response has continued to provide timely, flexible support to local authorities and partners across the UK, responding to a range of complex and high-impact incidents in the last few months.

Responding to a major UXO incident in the South West
In the South West, REACT supported local authorities during a significant unexploded ordnance (UXO) incident affecting Plymouth, Exmouth and surrounding areas. Trained Responders were rapidly mobilised to assist with rest centre operations and coordination, working alongside statutory partners to support large numbers of displaced residents.

Ensuring access to water for vulnerable households in Bristol
REACT also responded to a major water supply disruption in Bristol. Working closely with local partners, teams coordinated the distribution of bottled water to vulnerable households. Within two hours, more than 80 households had been reached, ensuring access to essential supplies during a critical period.

Supporting Safe Patient Discharge in Southampton
In Southampton, following a fire at the hospital, REACT was requested to support the coordination of patient discharges and home movements. Responders deployed promptly, helping to ensure safe, efficient and well-managed transitions for those affected.

Across these deployments, 17 Responders contributed 88 operational hours, delivering targeted support where it was most needed.

Investing in Preparedness and Coordination 
Alongside operational activity, REACT is continuing to invest in preparedness and partnership working. The organisation supported Local Resilience Forums (LRFs) and partner authorities through table-top exercises, strengthening coordination and readiness for future incidents. Relationships across LRFs and Regional Resilience Partnerships (RRPs) were further developed, including support to Resilience Day in Harrow. Engagement with the UK Resilience Academy also remained active during this period.

Across both response and preparedness, REACT continues to demonstrate its ability to integrate quickly with local systems, build trusted partnerships, and deliver practical outcomes for communities under pressure - acting early, adapting to need, and reinforcing local response when it matters most.