In July 2022, the West Midlands experienced record-breaking temperatures of over 38°C, causing severe disruptions. Homes overheated, schools closed, transport systems failed, and emergency services were overwhelmed. Additionally, flash flooding has become a regular problem, damaging properties, disrupting roads, and creating health hazards. It is also often the most vulnerable residents in disadvantaged communities that are disproportionately affected.

WM-Adapt will focus on bringing together researchers, policymakers, and—most importantly—community organisations and members to co-design solutions that address these challenges.

Project Leader Dr Emma Ferranti from the University of Birmingham commented:

“WM-Adapt represents a major step forward in our efforts to build climate resilience in the West Midlands. By integrating community perspectives into the existing adaptation work, undertaking new modelling of surface water flooding and the urban heat island, and bringing together regional organisations, we aim to create a robust framework that can be replicated across the UK.”

Community Involvement at the Core

BVSC-trained Community Researchers will play a key role in gathering insights directly from residents and community groups across the West Midlands. Through World Café events, diverse voices will share their experiences, concerns, and ideas about how best to adapt to climate change. This feedback will help shape community-scale solutions to the climate risks facing the region.

Residents and groups will also have the chance to participate in Adaptation Design Workshops that will bring together local people, service providers, and decision-makers to co-create action plans for adapting to climate change. These events will focus on four priority neighbourhoods, developing tailored pathways to build resilience against flooding and extreme heat.

Sophie Wilson, BVSC’s Director of Research, highlighted the importance of community input:

"We are so pleased to be part of this exciting and groundbreaking project that puts the views and lived experiences of citizens at the centre of finding practical solutions to the effects of climate change.”

Building a Stronger, More Resilient Region

The project builds on existing tools, such as the Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), which already helps local authorities map risks and plan for climate challenges. WM-Adapt will enhance this work with new insights into urban flooding and overheating while adding layers that consider health and economic impacts.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands and Chair of WMCA, emphasised the importance of community empowerment:

"This groundbreaking project will empower communities with the tools and knowledge they need to understand and tackle these risks, helping us to build a sustainable and secure future for everyone.”

By uniting regional organisations, policymakers, and citizens, WM-Adapt will develop practical strategies that can be shared across the UK, ensuring the West Midlands leads the way in building climate resilience.

 

For more information and opportunities to get involved in WM-Adapt, please contact Dr Marianne Walker at [email protected] .

Let’s work together to create a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future for our communities.