More UK households taking a practical approach to emergency preparedness

Keeping a few extra tins of food, a charged power bank or a battery-powered radio might not sound like traditional prepping. However, these are among the measures some UK households are taking to prepare for unexpected disruption.

An article published by The Independent on 26 August 2026 explored the practice sometimes called ‘soft prepping’, where people make modest preparations without necessarily considering themselves preppers.

Rather than storing months of supplies or investing in specialist equipment, the emphasis is on having a few essentials available when needed.

Preparing for individual household needs

Among those featured in the report was Liz Blackshaw, a councillor from Leicestershire, who described keeping additional supplies suitable for her family’s dietary requirements.

She also keeps equipment that could prove useful during a power cut.

For households managing food allergies or intolerances, having a small reserve of suitable products may be particularly helpful if shopping becomes difficult.

Other useful items might include a torch, spare batteries, drinking water and a means of receiving information if internet services are unavailable.

How prepared are UK households?

Government research published in August 2026 suggests that many people recognise the value of preparing for emergencies but have yet to put comprehensive plans in place.

The Cabinet Office’s UK Public Survey of Risk Perception, Resilience and Preparedness found that 74% of respondents believed there were effective steps people could take to prepare.

However, only 13% considered their household largely or totally prepared.

The Government is also planning a new public awareness campaign to encourage households to take basic precautions.

For anyone interested in getting started, the Government’s Prepare website provides information on emergency planning, essential supplies and responding to different types of disruption.