What is a Welfare Evacuation Shelter? Systems and Preparations That Wheelchair Users Should Know About

Have you ever heard the term "welfare evacuation center"?

When a disaster occurs, many people evacuate to predetermined "general evacuation centers," such as nearby schools or community centers. However, for individuals who use wheelchairs, general evacuation centers can pose many challenges, such as gyms with many steps, narrow and crowded hallways, and difficult-to-use restrooms. As a result, many may hesitate to go to evacuation centers altogether.

To provide a safe and comfortable evacuation experience for such individuals, "welfare evacuation centers" are established. However, some people may not be familiar with their existence or how to use them.

In this article, we will clearly explain what welfare evacuation centers are and how to utilize them.

What is a Welfare Evacuation Center? Differences from General Evacuation Centers

What exactly is a welfare evacuation center? According to materials from the Cabinet Office, it is defined as "an evacuation center equipped with a system that allows vulnerable individuals (such as the elderly and disabled) to live safely." Welfare evacuation centers have specific eligibility criteria, meaning they are not open for anyone to use.

『要援護者（高齢者、障害者等）が安心して生活ができる体制を整備…（中略）…した避難所である』

引用元：福祉避難所について｜内閣府

On the other hand, general evacuation centers are facilities aimed at the entire local population, often designated as school gyms or community centers, which may not be fully equipped for barrier-free access or necessary facilities.

Who is Eligible?

Individuals eligible for welfare evacuation centers include those who may face difficulties in living at general evacuation centers or require special considerations, along with their families.

Specifically, this includes the elderly, disabled individuals, pregnant women, infants and their families, and those with health conditions.

Is it a Misunderstanding that "You Can Go to a Welfare Evacuation Center Immediately After a Disaster?"

When a disaster strikes, anyone can be overwhelmed with immense anxiety. Depending on the situation, even going to a general evacuation center can be challenging. In such circumstances, is it possible to go directly to a welfare evacuation center??

First, Evacuating to a General Evacuation Center is the Basic Procedure

When a disaster occurs, evacuation centers are established at local disaster prevention hubs, such as schools and community centers. The general procedure is to evacuate there first.

Even if welfare evacuation centers are established afterward, it is generally expected that individuals will move from the general evacuation center on their own or with their families. However, since the support systems for transportation differ by municipality, it is advisable to check the arrangements of your local municipality in advance.

The Timing of Establishing Welfare Evacuation Centers Varies by Municipality

Welfare evacuation centers are not necessarily established a few days after a disaster. There may be cases where welfare evacuation centers are established later, or where general evacuation spaces and welfare evacuation spaces are separated within designated evacuation centers. It is important to understand that "the operation may differ by municipality."

According to a contribution by a Cabinet Office official,

『 ある小学校が指定避難所でかつ福祉避難所として指定されていた場合、体育館など一般避難者の避難スペース（以下「一般避難スペス」という）があるということになります。このケースでは、その教室は「福祉避難所」ですが、小学校という施設として見るとこの教室は「福祉避難スペース」です。』

引用元：福祉避難所について（川上一郎　内閣府政策統括官（防災担当）付参事官（被災者行政担当）（当時））（月刊ノーマライゼーション2017年9月号）│DINF