Sizing up disaster risk reduction: A qualitative study of the voices of big bodied people in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

The principles of disaster risk reduction includes understanding of disaster risk in all dimensions including meaningful inclusion of marginalised populations. This research sought to hear and record the voices of big bodied people to answer the question “What are the experiences, perceptions and preparedness for disasters of big bodied people and/or their families?” and inform DRR considerations in Aotearoa New Zealand. Purposive sampling recruited seventeen people identifying as big bodied. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted between October 2018 and April 2020. One interview was conducted via Zoom™ during the COVID-19 pandemic, all others were in person. Audio recordings of the interviews were transcribed and data were reflexively thematically analysed. Three main themes were identified: Being big in a disaster; Harsh realities; and Ready or not. Advocacy is required to ensure that the concerns and needs of BBP particular to size, shape and weight are heard and included in DRR and disaster planning. Emergency managers should be supported to ensure that engagement with BBP is appropriate, not stigmatising or discriminatory.