Handbook 2 - Community Recovery

Recovery is the coordinated process of supporting affected communities in the reconstruction of the built environment and the restoration of emotional, social, economic, built and natural environment wellbeing.

Recovery is more than simply the replacement of what has been destroyed and the rehabilitation of those affected. It is a complex social and developmental process. Recovery provides an opportunity to improve aspects beyond previous conditions by enhancing social infrastructure, natural and built environments, and economies.

The manner in which recovery processes are undertaken is critical to their success. Recovery is best achieved when the affected community is able to exercise a high degree of self-determination. Well-designed communication plans are also critical to the success of an affected community’s self-determination.

This handbook has six sections:

• Introduction Introduces the handbook and broad context in which the recovery manager works
• Foundations Outlines national principles and foundational concepts for recovery
• Effects Outlines effects of disasters on communities including the four integrated environments
• Processes, Plan & Manage Describes how to plan and manage community recovery including preparedness and planning and operationalising community recovery
• Activities Describes activities or services that may need to be facilitated for effective recovery
• Appendices Additional practical information and broad, generalised checklists.