UK Adults Prioritize Teddy Bears Over Emergency Supplies

A recent survey of 1,000 UK adults found that many people prioritize sentimental belongings, such as childhood teddy bears, when preparing for disasters. The survey, conducted as part of the After the End project in April 2026, highlights the importance of emotional well-being during crises, in addition to practical preparedness.

The UK government launched its Prepare initiative in 2024, recommending that people have enough food, water, and medicine to last 72 hours, as well as documents, cash, batteries or power banks, and a wind-up radio. However, the survey found that most people have less than half of what is recommended by the UK government and the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Only 4 out of 1,000 people reported being fully prepared for a sudden crisis or disaster. This lack of preparedness is echoed in the 2025 UK Public Survey of Risk Perception, Resilience and Preparedness, which found that 13% of 10,536 adults felt largely or totally prepared for a disaster.

The survey also found that people prioritize sentimental belongings, such as childhood teddy bears, jewelry, and family photographs, for emotional well-being during a crisis. This highlights the importance of considering emotional well-being in addition to practical preparedness when preparing for disasters.

## Why it matters The importance of being prepared for disasters cannot be overstated. With the increasing threat of climate change and geopolitical instability, governments have started advising citizens to prepare now for disaster. The EU's preparEU project argues that today's threats are fast, complex, and interconnected, and that our response must be more proactive. By prioritizing both practical preparedness and emotional well-being, individuals can better cope with the challenges posed by disasters.

## What happens next As the UK government and other organizations continue to emphasize the importance of disaster preparedness, it is likely that more people will begin to take steps to prepare themselves and their families. This may involve creating a go-bag with essential emergency supplies, as well as considering the emotional well-being of family members during a crisis. By taking a proactive approach to disaster preparedness, individuals can help to ensure their safety and well-being in the face of uncertainty.