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Supporting post-disaster social recovery to build back better

Sandeeka Mannakkara (Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, New Zealand.)
Suzanne Jane Wilkinson (The University of Auckland)

International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment

ISSN: 1759-5908

Article publication date: 8 June 2015

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a set of principles for implementation of successful post-disaster social recovery in-line with the concept of “building back better” (BBB).

Design/methodology/approach

A set of preliminary principles for post-disaster social recovery was established from literature review. The 2009 Victorian Bushfires was chosen as a case study to examine the implemented social recovery approaches and impacts.

Findings

Analysis of the literature and case study have led to the creation of a set of modified BBB principles for social recovery under two categories, first, community support and, second, community involvement. Key principles under first category include: providing personalized support for affected families, specialized support for vulnerable groups and improved psychological support; building community cohesion; and keeping the community informed. Key principles under second category include: involving the community in designing and implementing recovery projects; providing support to the community; and maintaining full transparency.

Research limitations/implications

This study focusses on one case study. The appropriateness and applicability of the proposed principles can be further tested using a range of different case studies in both developed and developing countries.

Practical implications

The principles presented should be incorporated into post-disaster social recovery programmes implemented by governments.

Originality/value

This research takes a unique look at drawing from international experiences to form a set of practical and universal principles to aid post-disaster social recovery as an important part of BBB.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to sincerely thank the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority (VBRRA) for the warm welcome and assistance with the data collection for this study. The authors are also grateful to all the interviewees for their willingness to participate and sharing their experiences with us openly. The funding for this research trip was provided by the University of Auckland, New Zealand.

Citation

Mannakkara, S. and Wilkinson, S.J. (2015), "Supporting post-disaster social recovery to build back better", International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, Vol. 6 No. 2, pp. 126-139. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJDRBE-06-2013-0019

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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