Some people are still unable to get into their homes

The move comes as formal links are set up between the Environment Agency and the independent National Flood Forum - set up to assist flood victims.

The Environment Agency says it can learn from the forum's experiences of dealing with communities which have suffered flooding.

The forum says it has specific experience in dealing with the "stress and trauma" of flood events.

The organisation is made up of people with direct experience of flooding.

Mary Dhonau, the National Flood Forum's community groups director, said: "We already work closely with the Environment Agency in a number of areas.

"We know the stress and trauma being flooded can bring and hope that our practical advice and experiences can benefit those recently affected or at risk of flooding in Carlisle and elsewhere in Cumbria.

Water damage

"Coping with the aftermath of being flooded is not easy but now is the time to take some steps towards making your home more flood resilient.

"We are keen to work with the Environment Agency to make sure that our knowledge is passed on to help others."

Glyn Vaughan, Environment Agency flood defence manager for Cumbria, added: "We are working closely with the National Flood Forum in order to learn from their experiences of dealing with communities who have suffered from flooding and we really appreciate their input."

Hundreds of thousands of pounds has so far been allocated to individuals and groups in Carlisle in the wake of the devastating January floods.

Many people are still unable to go back into their homes because of water damage.

The Cumbria Community Foundation set up a flood recovery fund, and have so far handed out more than �500,000 in grants to almost 300 families and individuals.