A Scottish forum to help publicise flood threats and to allow victims of flooding a public voice has been officially launched today.

The Scottish Flood Forum was proposed by the Flooding Issues Advisory Committee last year and follows a similar 2002 initiative in England and Wales, which came after severe flooding two years previously.

Areas which are particularly at risk of flooding will have community groups set up to help publicise emergency flood warnings, and to offer important information on how householders can protect themselves and their property against the risks of flooding.

"It is increasingly important to raise awareness of flooding in this way, following one of the wettest summers on record, and the risk is only likely to increase with climate change in years to come," said Environment Minister Michael Russell.

"Flooding is highly distressing for its victims and the forum will also play an important role in providing an independent voice for those affected by flooding or at high risk from its devastating impact.

"By investing £180,000 in this forum, we aim to provide the means to help people identify and reduce flood risk wherever possible to protect our environment, our people and our economy," he added.

The allocated money includes initial set-up costs and operational funding for three years. The National Flood Forum will establish the new body, with support from SEPA.

"It has always been our ambition to open a branch in Scotland and to give the much needed and necessary support to people at risk of flooding in Scotland," said Mary Dhonau, chief executive of the National Flood Forum.

"We are delighted that Scottish Government has recognised the valuable work we do and is supporting us financially, to enable us to work with and support both the victims and those at risk of flooding in Scotland."