You can help us manage this risk in communities across your region by volunteering as an independent member in your local RFCC.

RFCCs are independent bodies that play a vital role in reducing the risk of flooding and coastal erosion. They:

• represent the views of local communities in how we manage flooding and coastal erosion
• help make communities more resilient and able to adapt to the challenges of a changing climate
• approve the programmes of work that better protect the homes and livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of people
• help create the local partnerships that pay for, build and manage the projects in our programmes

You can hear more about how important these roles are in this short video by Josie Bateman from the Environment Agency.

We recently ran a drop-in session where we talked about the roles in more detail and answered questions from potential applicants. If you are interested in these roles but couldn’t make the session, you can watch the recording here.

The independent member roles

We’re looking for new independent members to join our RFCCs around the country. These are voluntary, unpaid roles, but as an independent member you’ll have an amazing opportunity to:

• get involved with issues that really matter in your area
• gain new skills, experience and build your network
• make a real difference to people’s lives, livelihoods and to the environment we all live in

It’s vital that RFCC members represent the true diversity of the communities we work with. We know that a diverse work force increases productivity, innovation, and employee satisfaction.

“RFCC committee members play an important role in influencing decisions about flood and coastal risk management in their local area and communities. Independent RFCC members bring a variety of experience, knowledge and skills to their committees, ranging from personal experience of flooding to academic research and it is important that the membership of our committees reflects the diversity of the communities in the region. If you are interested in making a difference to how flooding and coastal management is delivered, please apply.”

Paula Hewitt, Thames RFCC Chair

We welcome applications from talented and enthusiastic people from all backgrounds. You don’t usually need formal qualifications for these roles, though an interest in certain specialities can help. It’s your enthusiasm and commitment to your local community that is most important.

We cover reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.  You’ll need to be able to join four meetings a year and prepare by reading papers in advance. You’ll benefit from a full induction and the chance to visit flood schemes in your region.

You should ideally live or work in the RFCC area you are applying for.

Please note that current employees of the Environment Agency are not eligible to apply.

Read our candidate pack which tells you more about being an RFCC member.

How to apply

You can apply now for roles in early 2026. Click on your local RFCC below to see the roles available and apply using our simple online form.

Before proceeding with your application, we kindly ask that you take a moment to review our Privacy Notice. It outlines how your personal data will be collected, used, and protected throughout the recruitment process. Understanding this information ensures transparency and helps you make informed decisions. If you have any questions after reading it, feel free to get in touch: [email protected]