Kirsty Hogan is Head of the International Team in the Cabinet Office’s Civil Contingencies Secretariat.

The European Union’s Civil Protection Mechanism offers the opportunity to work with multi-national partners on prevention projects, preparedness projects and civil protection exercises. These various forms of work on improving the interventions in case of emergencies come with the chance of up to 85% of funding covered by the EU.

It’s an excellent funding opportunity for valuable work, yet while some Member States regularly make successful bids for this funding, the UK has had relatively limited involvement in such projects and exercises. Why? Our initial research suggests that some UK organisations are daunted by the EU forms and process, struggle to find international partners or simply aren’t aware  that such opportunities exist.

As the UK’s national contact point for EU civil protection, the Civil Contingencies Secretariat in the Cabinet Office decided to try to address these concerns by holding an information day.  We coordinated with UKCDS who, on our behalf, kindly hosted the event on 7 March to raise awareness among the UK civil protection community about EU funding opportunities for 2014.

Over 60 participants from across the UK gathered at The Wellcome Trust to hear from the European Commission (DG ECHO) about the process for applying for this EU funding, and pick up hints and tips from individuals who had been involved in previous projects and exercises. Advice included starting early and making sure the proposal fitted with the organisation’s broader strategic goals.

It was an informative and thought-provoking day, and one which we hope has spurred colleagues into considering potential funding ideas for when the European Commission launches the upcoming 2014 calls for proposals.

As the UK’s national contact point, the Cabinet Office has a role to play in considering and approving potential proposals and I would recommend all those interested to get in touch with us early on.  We can offer advice and guidance, and potentially help identify suitable European projects or exercise partners.

If you’d like to get in contact please send any ideas and thoughts to pnc-ccs@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk.