The role of “zero-responders” during 7/7: implications for the emergency services

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the psychological processes involved in spontaneous co-operation by survivors of mass emergencies, and the possible implications this may have for emergency responders.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative interview study was conducted with 12 survivors and witnesses of the 7 July 2005 London bombings. Data were subjected to thematic analysis.

Findings

Spontaneous co-operation amongst survivors often emerged, and this was a function of a common identity that grew out of a sense of shared fate amongst those affected. Some social influence that encouraged co-operation also occurred, and this was dependent upon whether there was a sense of shared identity between source and target of influence.

Research limitations/implications

Evidence was only collected from a sub-set of one incident (7/7), thus limiting possible generalisability of the findings. Further research into comparable situations would provide a better understanding of the processes underlying mutual co-operation and support amongst emergency survivors.

Practical implications

Uninjured bystanders in emergencies can act as “zero-responders”, and so may become a useful resource which can be utilised by the emergency services in mass emergencies.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to explore in detail the social influence processes underlying spontaneous co-operation amongst survivors of emergencies, and will be of use to emergency responders.

Citation

Cocking, C. (2013), "The role of “zero-responders” during 7/7: implications for the emergency services", International Journal of Emergency Services, Vol. 2 No. 2, pp. 79-93. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJES-08-2012-0035