CERT (UK) traces its origins to 6th December 2015, emerging in the immediate aftermath of Storm Desmond’s devastating impact on Cumbria. Our Founder and Director, Kerryanne Wilde, galvanised a response through a simple Facebook post, quickly rallying volunteers to assist those affected in the Eden district. As the scale of the crisis unfolded, so too did the reach of our support—extending rapidly to the wider Cumbrian community and, eventually, throughout the UK.
From those earliest days, volunteers devoted themselves tirelessly, many contributing more than 60 hours a week, and earning the trust and backing of local businesses and partner organisations. It soon became clear that the need for coordinated support—particularly in the face of repeated flooding and other emergencies—would be ongoing and nationwide. CERT (UK) thus evolved to address not just the immediate aftermath of disaster, but also the long-term needs of individuals and families in crisis or hardship.
Central to our mission is collaboration: we work closely with other organisations and agencies, forging strong links with flood response groups and the broader third sector. This network has enabled us to expand our reach and effectiveness, ensuring that help arrives where and when it is needed most. Our approach is deeply rooted in community—empowering local groups, bringing them under our umbrella, and fostering resilience at every level.
Today, CERT (UK) is proud to be piloting projects in Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, London, Cornwall, Somerset, and Northern Ireland. Each initiative is tailored to meet the unique needs of its community, yet all share our overarching commitment to compassionate, practical assistance.
Our achievements as of September 2025 stand as a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and supporters:
- An estimated £5.7 million in goods received in donations, with £5.65 million already distributed to those in need.
- Robust procedures for tracking and monitoring both goods and the individuals and families we assist, ensuring accountability and effective support for clients and volunteers alike.
- A regular team of over 68 volunteers, providing the heart and hands of our operations.
- Support extended to an estimated 57,436 families and businesses, across 13 counties in England, Northern Ireland, and the Scottish Borders.
- Direct assistance to more than 747 individuals experiencing homelessness, including meals, food parcels, toiletries, clothing, sleeping bags, and, where possible, homes and furniture packages.
Our remit has broadened significantly: in addition to flood relief, CERT (UK) now stands ready to support all those facing crisis, emergency, or disaster. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals affected by fire, domestic violence, homelessness, disability, vulnerability, or the challenges of returning home from hospital. We also actively combat loneliness and promote camaraderie, exemplified by our full support of the Penrith & Eden Armed Forces Veterans Club, where free breakfasts and further assistance are available to all veterans who attend.
CERT (UK) is committed to continuous improvement and growth, always seeking new opportunities to extend our support, bring together smaller community groups, and build upon the solid foundation of trust, care, and resilience that is our hallmark. The journey that began in the aftermath of a storm has become a nationwide movement, united by the belief that, together, we can ensure nobody faces hardship alone.