Suffolk has taken a major step forward in enhancing its preparedness for emergencies, climate impacts, and future challenges with the appointment of a new Chief Resilience Officer and a new Head of Emergency Planning for the Local Authorities. These appointments mark a significant investment in strengthening the county’s ability to prevent, respond to, and recover from emergencies.
Welcoming Becky Heginbotham‑Blount as Chief Resilience Officer
The Suffolk Resilience Forum (SRF) is pleased to welcome Becky Heginbotham‑Blount as its new Chief Resilience Officer (CRO). Becky will play a central role in bringing partners together from emergency services and local authorities to community groups, health partners, and businesses to ensure Suffolk is well prepared for both current and emerging challenges.
Reflecting on her appointment, Becky said:
“I’m delighted to join the SRF at such a pivotal time. Suffolk has a strong foundation of partnership working, and I’m excited to build on this with colleagues across the system. Together, we can strengthen our preparedness, support our communities, and make sure Suffolk is ready for the risks and opportunities ahead.”
New Head of Emergency Planning: Courtney Walsh
Suffolk’s Local Authorities have jointly appointed Courtney Walsh as the new Head of Emergency Planning (HEP), following many years of dedicated service from Steve Henthorn, who has been a valued member of the Joint Emergency Planning Unit (JEPU) since 2009. The SRF warmly thanks Steve for his outstanding commitment, steady leadership, and long‑standing service. He will be greatly missed, and colleagues wish him every happiness in his well‑earned retirement.
Photo: Left-Courtney Walsh, right- Becky Heginbotham‑Blount
JEPU works in close partnership with the Suffolk Resilience Forum, ensuring seamless coordination between local authorities and multi‑agency responders during planning, preparedness, and response to major incidents as well as leading the recovery efforts. Courtney now steps into the role of leading JEPU.
Courtney says:
“I’m thrilled to step into the role of Head of the Joint Emergency Planning Unit. Suffolk is already a fantastic example of resilience in action, and I’m excited to drive that even further. On behalf of Suffolk local authorities and working alongside our emergency services, voluntary sector, and partners across the region, I’m committed to strengthening our preparedness, championing innovation, and ensuring our communities are ready for whatever comes our way. This is an exciting moment for Suffolk’s resilience, and I can’t wait to get started”
Launching the Suffolk Trailblazer Programme
Alongside this renewed leadership, Suffolk is launching the multi‑year Trailblazer Programme which is a significant investment designed to expand capacity and modernise resilience across the county. The programme will focus on strengthening the SRF through several new workstreams, including:
Looking Ahead
With strengthened leadership, expanded capacity, and investment in new capabilities, Suffolk is positioning itself at the forefront of local resilience innovation. The combined leadership of Becky Heginbotham‑Blount and Courtney Walsh, supported by the wider SRF and JEPU teams, marks the beginning of a new chapter in ensuring Suffolk remains safe, prepared, and resilient for the years ahead.
