Collective Conviction tells the inspiring story of how Disaster Action became established, initiated by bereaved people and survivors determined to draw from their negative experiences for the benefit of others.

The founder members were aware of a dreadful thread running through the many different disasters they had experienced. These tragedies  weren’t Acts of God. They needn’t have happened. We didn’t want anyone else to go through what we’ve been through, and so Disaster Action was born.

The book outlines three core principles at the heart of our work and still relevant today – accountability, support and prevention. It explains the significant contribution we have made to cultural change in UK emergency management, legislation and guidance and how we continue to influence, advise and support those dealing with disaster.

Key themes include the needs and rights of individuals, the treatment of bereaved and survivors, inquests and inquiries, the law, the media, memorials and commemorations, and the importance of corporate memory and public accountability.