Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment was introduced as part of the Community-based Disaster Preparedness (CBDP) program by the Federation in 1995. The objective is to ensure the development of successful disaster preparation and mitigation programmes at the community level. This methodology and these tools, require those involved to learn from the experiences others.

The VCA uses the following tools to focus the community on the work that needs to be done to reduce disasters. Red Cross national society volunteers engage with the community in data collection exercises through:

Interviews

Secondary data collection

Community history displayed by text & diagrams

Hazard & capability maps (1. land-use, 2. vulnerability and 3.capability maps)

Applying the equation (Hazard x Vulnerability)/Capability = Risk , to their community to better understand their risk

The data gathered will focus the community to ensure the development of realistic action plans. These plans are then analysed to zoom in on the activities that can be done. The VCA process helps identify who should be involved and what financial and other resources are available or can be sourced.

Red Cross National societies implement the VCA method in collaboration with the national disaster office and local community services. Thus, using VCA, communities are able to identify and solve problems within their capability, and reduce the impact of severe hazards.