Lucy Easthope's memoir tells the story of her career as an expert in disaster recovery. Today, she recalls her first assignment which took her to New York City in the immediate aftermath of 9/11. Rebekah Staton reads.

When the Dust Settles is Lucy Easthope's memoir about her career in disaster planning. Since 2001, Lucy has been at the heart of the recovery effort of almost every disaster involving a UK citizen. She's the one who has written the plans for what to do when things go wrong and need a response. From 9/11, to the devastating impact of flooding, the poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko, to the pandemic she has been there, advising politicians, local authorities and the families who have suffered bereavement and loss. Here she takes us behind the police tape, makes sense of the confusion and plans for what happens after the initial emergency response is over, and the rebuilding of lives and communities must begin. She lights a way through the chaos and on towards hope.

Abridged by Penny Leicester
Produced by Elizabeth Allard Show less