British Red Cross - All feeds

Shelter provision must speed up Red Cross warns two years on from Haiti quake

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:16:00 +0000

Housing repairs and reconstruction in Haiti must speed up.

Northampton family thank Red Cross with generous donation to county wheelchair appeal

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:50:00 +0000

The family of 10 year old Chloe Pickering from Northampton are handing over a cheque for £1600 to the British Red Cross to buy eight new wheelchairs for the county on Thursday 16 February at Red Cross House, Hatton Close, Moulton Park, Northampton (NN3 6SU).

Red Cross distributes aid to Ugandan flood victims

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:46:00 +0000

The Red Cross is distributing household items to 4,000 families recovering from floods and landslides.

Red Cross helps people affected by Mozambique floods

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:49:00 +0000

The British Red Cross is supporting the Mozambique Red Cross after tropical storm Dando caused widespread flooding.

Volunteers wrap up for freezing mission of mercy

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:48:00 +0000

Our volunteers brave the cold to visit the most vulnerable – who are often cold and distressed – and ensure they’re safe.

British Red Cross to support more vulnerable people over 50 in North Wales

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:08:00 +0000

A British Red Cross service supporting vulnerable people over 50 is being extended across North Wales thanks to a £1 million grant from the Big Lottery Fund. The launch of the Gofal programme will take place on Friday 17 February at the Venue Cymru in Llandudno.

Change is needed in the humanitarian system’s response to disasters

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:21:26 +0000

The British Red Cross welcomes a report released by Oxfam today which highlights the need for the humanitarian system to shift towards a local response, rather than global, when disasters strike.

Greater numbers of people are being affected by disasters due to issues which include:

increased frequency of weather-related disasters
more people living in urban contexts at risk of more complex disasters
a burgeoning global population of 7 billion, which is expected to double by 2100.

As the report explains, the international humanitarian system will struggle to cope with those affected when disasters strike without having local response mechanisms in place.

For the British Red Cross, as part of an international Movement, working with local staff and volunteers is always central in any response to a disaster. And every Red Cross and Red Crescent National Society is a neutral auxiliary to its government, meaning their volunteers and staff are active from the earliest moments in a crisis.

In 2010, when an unprecedented earthquake struck Haiti, it was local volunteers who were first on the scene. Since then, the British Red Cross has been working closely with the Haitian Red Cross to help survivors recover.

Prepared before disaster strikes

As Oxfam’s report emphasises, there is an increasing need for emergency resources to be closer to where disasters happen.

Around the world the Red Cross has 187 National Societies and each has its own emergency supplies stored in-country. However, when large-scale disasters happen there can of course be a need for international assistance.

At the British Red Cross our aim is to buy and store goods locally so as to speed up our response, boost local economies and ensure assistance is relevant to local society and culture. For instance, we store emergency relief items in warehouses in Kuala Lumpur and Panama, which are strategically positioned close to areas more prone to disasters.

If we don’t have what is needed in our pre-positioned stock another approach we use, as for example in our response to the current food crisis in east Africa, is to release cash to buy items in-country or nearby. This is an efficient way of responding and supports the local economy.

When responding to an emergency, the Red Cross co-ordinates with affected governments the UN and other humanitarian organisations – however co-ordination in the chaos of a disaster is always a challenge and all actors have a responsibility to improve ways of working together more effectively.

Reducing the risk of disasters

Investment in reducing the risk of disaster is a core part of British Red Cross work. When we plan a recovery programme to help people get back on their feet, we also look for ways to lessen the impact of future disasters. In Haiti, we’ve seen how improving the ways we communicate with people affected by disasters is vital to ensuring that communities are at the heart of and engaged in their own recovery.

However, it’s not only in the aftermath of disasters that we help communities be better prepared. Bangladesh is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, but the work that the government, the Red Cross and other organisations have done to help communities at risk of cyclones get prepared has had a huge impact in recent years. In part, this work can be attributed for the fact that in 2007 Cyclone Sidr resulted in more than 3,300 people losing their lives, where as in 2009 when Cyclone Aila struck the number of lives lost – while still too many – was reduced to 190, although 300,000 lost their homes and livelihoods.

When disasters strike humanitarian aid is essential and the generosity of donors at such times helps save lives. Although the emphasis remains on responding to crises, as Oxfam’s report points out, there is not enough investment in preventing and reducing the risk of disasters.

We know that when the TV cameras shine the spotlight on a humanitarian disaster people are willing to give a donation, but raising money to help people prepare for a disaster that hasn’t happened proves a much bigger challenge.

And yet according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), every $1 spent on reducing the risk of disasters could save $4 in responding to an emergency.

I doubt many people know that and it’s not exactly a headline winner – but if anyone has a bright idea on how to get people excited about putting their hand in their pocket to support disaster risk reduction please let me know!

Visit our website to find out more about how we help people prepare for disasters

Red Cross assists at Costa Concordia shipwreck site

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:58:00 +0000

Red Cross staff and volunteers support the rescue and relief operation at the site of the shipwrecked cruise ship, Costa Concordia.

Red Cross responds to severe weather disruption

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:58:00 +0000

Emergency teams are responding throughout the UK as severe weather affects many parts of the country.

British Red Cross father and son team respond to Crediton thatch fire

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:10:00 +0000

Volunteers from the British Red Cross fire and emergency support service (FESS) attended a large blaze in Mill Street, Crediton yesterday afternoon (Thursday 2 February) when a fire broke out in a row of thatched cottages.

Syria: neutrality can help save lives

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:15:46 +0000

As the situation in Syria continues to deteriorate, it becomes increasingly difficult and dangerous for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in the region to carry out their lifesaving work.

On 25 January, Dr Abd-al-Razzaq Jbeiro, secretary-general of the Syrian Arab Red Crescent and president of its Idlib branch, was shot and killed on the Halab-Damascus Highway. He was travelling in a vehicle clearly marked with the Red Crescent emblem.

Lack of respect for medical services

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has already called upon all those involved in the violence to respect and facilitate Red Crescent and Red Cross efforts to come to the aid of those in need. The call came when one Syrian Arab Red Crescent volunteer died and two volunteers were injured after their ambulance came under fire in September 2011.

Last month Béatrice Mégevand-Roggo, the ICRC head of operations for the Near and Middle East, again voiced the ICRC’s concern about difficulties accessing medical care in Syria. She said: “There have been repeated reports of lack of respect for medical staff and facilities.

“Our partners in the Syrian Arab Red Crescent have been working around the clock to provide medical and food aid in particularly difficult and risky circumstances. Any delay or impediment in providing first aid could cost injured persons their lives.”

Protection in neutrality

The neutrality and impartiality of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement enables it to work in areas where many other agencies cannot – providing help to people solely on the basis of their needs and giving priority to the most urgent cases of distress.

Syrian Arab Red Crescent volunteers administer life-saving first aid to the injured. Like all medical personnel, they must be allowed to carry out their work in safety. Increasing the people in Syria’s knowledge of the Movement’s exclusively humanitarian aim – to bring aid in a fully impartial and neutral manner to people in need – will help reduce the dangers faced by staff and volunteers.

Funds from the British Red Cross’ Libya & Region Appeal are helping support the Syrian Arab Red Crescent in preparing a public awareness campaign to raise awareness in Syria about the Red Cross Movement’s emblem and fundamental principles, and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent’s role.

Donate to our Libya & Region Appeal

Volunteers provide help after firearms incident

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:52:00 +0000

Volunteers set up a rest centre yesterday after residents in Lincolnshire were caught up in a firearms incident.

Keep safe in the cold!

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:45:55 +0000

It took its time, but winter’s finally here.

The gloves are on, the temperature’s dropping faster than the economy and, later this week, parts of the UK will be colder than Iceland. That’s Iceland.

With the best will in the world, that realistically means lots of falls and broken bones, and hundreds of vulnerable people potentially put at risk from the freezing weather. So, here are some tips for staying safe:

Broken bones
It’s a simple enough equation: snow equals ice equals slippery surfaces equals people flat on their backsides. If you see someone slip over and break a bone:

1. You need to immobilise the affected part. Try and support the injury with a cushion or items of clothing to prevent unnecessary movement.

2. With upper-arm injuries, encourage the person to support the limb with their hand.

3. As soon as possible, call 999 or get someone else to do it.

Head injuries
If someone is unlucky enough to slip and bang their head, they will definitely need your help.

1. Ask the person to rest and apply a cold compress to their injury – this can be ice or a packet of frozen vegetables, wrapped in something like a tea towel.

2. If they become drowsy, vomit or their condition deteriorates, call 999 or get someone else to do it.

Hypothermia
Most of us associate hypothermia with mountaineers and outdoorsy-types, but it’s more often caused by being in a poorly heated room for too long.

Older people and infants are especially at risk. (Older people are less aware of changes in temperature and infants can’t regulate their own body temperatures.)

A person with hypothermia may be shivering, pale and cold to touch. They may also be disorientated.
1. Call 999 or get someone else to do it.
2. Warm the person slowly by wrapping them in a blanket and giving them warm drinks and high-energy foods, such as chocolate.
3. Give constant reassurance.

Take care during this cold snap, and for more information on basic first aid skills that could help your family and friends visit our website.

Vulnerable older residents get ‘hug in a box’

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:03:00 +0000

Despite the cold, older residents in Bolton will still be snug after we deliver winter packs to their homes.

Bangladesh: a cyclone photo story

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:36:49 +0000

Bangladesh has always been a frequent victim of cyclones, but a number of complex issues mean cyclones, and the tidal surges they often cause, are having an increasingly devastating impact on people living along the coast.

Population pressure, land shortage, urbanisation, governance and environmental management are all contributing factors, along with any rise in sea level from the impact of climate change* , which challenge the sustainability of many people’s means of making a living.

Fishing families and others on low incomes are particularly vulnerable. As they are already poor, when a cyclone or flood takes everything they own, they are left with literally nothing. They have no reserves in the bank and no insurance to help them start over.

The trauma of living through a cyclone only gives way to the overwhelming struggle to survive in its aftermath. And of course the survivors are the lucky ones.

It would be understandable to think that hundreds of thousands of people are facing a bleak future. But that’s not quite the whole story.

Many communities are defying the odds, hoping for, and finding, a better future for themselves and their children.

You can find out more in the photo story below.

Our programme

Thanks to a five-year Bangladesh Red Crescent programme (2006-2011), supported by the British Red Cross, 84 communities are now better at protecting people and their means of making a living when a cyclone strikes.

We focused on those living along the coast and most at risk of losing their lives, in particular:

women and children
fishermen.

Alamgir Hossain, from Ghutabacha community, says: “Knowledge is not expensive but it saves lives. Before Cyclone Sidr in 2007, people didn’t bother much about cyclone warnings.

“But over the last few years, since the Red Crescent has been working with us, people’s attitudes have changed. Now people listen to the warnings and know what to do.”

Safety at sea

Facing a cyclone at sea is a risky business. But without a radio and understanding of early warning signals, this is the terrifying situation experienced by many Bangladeshi fishermen.

We’ve trained 300 fishermen in safety at sea and provided them with:

radio
torch
buoy
compass
first aid kit.

The training included: use of the equipment; understanding the cyclone warning system; first aid; and search and rescue.

Empowering women

It is common practice in Bangladesh for women to only leave the house with permission from their husband.

When a cyclone hits and a woman’s husband is out, despite the danger, she often doesn’t feel able to leave the home to seek safe shelter. As a result many women and children may die unnecessarily.

Through our programme, we tackled this problem by:

setting up women’s forums and building women’s confidence through training
working with the wider community, including religious leaders, to change attitudes to women.

Community action

Setting up community committees, made up of volunteers that motivate and organise their community to prepare for and respond to cyclones, has been key to the programme’s success and sustainability.

Alagmir Hossain, who is the secretary general of the Ghutabacha community disaster preparedness committee, says: “We are much better informed and organised. We’ve developed hazard maps that identify the homes and people most at risk, as well as the location of shelters.

“I feel confident we’ll continue sharing this knowledge and using the skills we’ve gained to save lives.”

A safer future

Following the completion of this work, the Bangladesh Red Crescent, with support from the British Red Cross, is developing a programme to help communities become more resilient, not just to cyclones but also a wider range of disasters and day to day crises.

Helping people protect their livelihoods as well as their lives will be a vital part of this work.

* UNISDR: Climate Change Impact And Disaster Vulnerabilities In The Coastal Areas Of Bangladesh

View the photos on Flickr

Find out more about how we’re helping people in Bangladesh prepare for disasters

What would you ask the Education Secretary?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:00:56 +0000

Would you ask for less homework? For better school dinners? Or for longer holidays?

On Tuesday 31 January the Rt Hon Michael Gove MP – Secretary of State for Education – will meet parliament’s Education Committee, where MPs will field questions from members of the public.

You can submit your question online, too, using the Twitter hashtag #AskGove.

First aid and humanitarian education

We see this committee as a great opportunity to highlight Pupil, citizen, life-saver – our campaign to add first aid and humanitarian education to the school curriculum. We know that it is a pressing concern for teachers, parents and pupils, who all value the Red Cross’ work in schools.

In 2011 we responded to the Department of Education’s national curriculum review of the essential knowledge and skills taught in schools. Now the department is reviewing responses around the core subjects of English, maths, science and physical education before they tackle other subjects to be included in the new National Curriculum.

A great campaign response

Since we launched our Pupil, citizen, life-saver e-campaign, our supporters have asked over 50 local MPs to sign our parliamentary petition. So, thanks to those who have taken part – and if you haven’t yet, you can ask your MP too.

Education isn’t – and shouldn’t be – just about reading, writing and maths. At its core, education should also be about gaining practical knowledge that will help people to be more confident, willing and able to help in a crisis. And what’s more practical than learning to save someone’s life? That’s why we asked Michael Gove questions about the curriculum.

Schools provide an ideal forum for learning how to cope with challenging situations, and the British Red Cross has an excellent track record with over five years helping teachers use our creative resources in the classroom.

We’ll be listening out for our questions (and the answers) on Tuesday during the Committee’s meeting – and we hope you will too.

For more information about our advocacy work, email advocacy@redcross.org.uk.

Winter brings fresh hardship for people in Syria

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:15:00 +0000

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement continues to help people as the situation in Syria deteriorates.

Red Cross launches vital emergency service for people affected by fires in North Yorkshire

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:48:00 +0000

From Wednesday 1 February volunteers from the British Red Cross will be on-hand to give vital support to victims of fires, floods and similar emergencies in North Yorkshire.

British Red Cross seeks life-savers in Royal Wootton Bassett

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:46:00 +0000

Volunteers from Royal Wootton Bassett are needed to help provide first aid services at sporting and public events throughout the county. Experience is not necessary as full training will be given.

British Red Cross shops appeal for donations

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:46:00 +0000

From toys to textiles and gifts to glassware, the Red Cross shops are desperate for donations.

First aid training for homeless people

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:58:00 +0000

Life can be dangerous on the streets – that’s why we’re running courses designed to help this vulnerable group.

First aid dynamos who are always ready to respond

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:33:00 +0000

A team of ‘first responders’ – who help paramedics react to emergencies – have just celebrated their 3,000th call-out.

East Africa six months on: how we are helping

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:58:00 +0000

Your donations have helped the Red Cross provide relief to hundreds of thousands of malnourished people.

Somerset runners urged to join Team Red Cross in Berlin and Paris marathons

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:28:00 +0000

The British Red Cross is looking for Somerset runners to sign up to a New Year challenge. There are places available on both the world famous Paris Marathon on Sunday, April 15, and the Berlin Marathon on Sunday, September 30.

Haiti - shelter provision must speed up

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:34:00 +0000

With many thousands of Haitians still living in camps, support must focus on housing, says the Red Cross.

Early hours help with the ‘booze bus’

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:55:00 +0000

With all that booze and squabbling, nights on the town can be pretty hazardous – so hurrah for the Red Cross.

Two years on, the Red Cross is helping to empower Haitians

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:29:00 +0000

Two years after Haiti’s devastating earthquake, the Red Cross is still helping Haitians recover.

Wiltshire Grandfather encourages others to learn first aid with the British Red Cross

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:40:00 +0000

A Grandfather from Purton who regularly looks after his young grandchildren has learned some life saving skills to help prepare for an emergency, and he encourages other Wiltshire grandparents to do the same.

Resourceful volunteers react to wind chaos

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 15:20:00 +0000

As fierce winds hit Scotland, volunteers came across two serious incidents in the space of a few minutes.

British Red Cross joins with Torbay Street Pastors to help people in crisis on streets of Torquay

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:27:00 +0000

The British Red Cross is looking for new volunteers to provide first aid and emotional support to vulnerable people at night on the streets of Torquay.

MBEs for three Red Cross volunteers

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 12:57:00 +0000

The Queen has awarded MBEs to three British Red Cross volunteers with a combined total of 146 years' service.

More resilient communities after Cyclone Aila

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:47:00 +0000

The Bangladesh Red Crescent has helped more than 1,000 families recover since Cyclone Aila hit in 2009.

British Red Cross sends funds to the Philippines

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:45:00 +0000

The British Red Cross has released £140,000 from its Disaster Fund following typhoon Washi.

British Red Cross sends funds to support typhoon stricken Philippines

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:05:00 +0000

The British Red Cross has released £140,000 from its Disaster Fund to support relief efforts in the wake of the catastrophic typhoon strike in the Philippines.

Boxing Day tsunami survivor in training for London Marathon to raise money for British Red Cross

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:34:00 +0000

A York mother is training for the Virgin London Marathon on Sunday 22 April to raise money for the British Red Cross, nearly seven years after the charity helped repatriate her in the aftermath of the devastating Boxing Day tsunami in 2004.

Volunteers to help those with too much festive spirit

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:20:00 +0000

Red Cross volunteers will provide first aid to Christmas revellers on Friday and Saturday nights.

New dawn for women in Bangladesh as they learn life-saving skills

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:15:00 +0000

Five years on from the twin tragic cyclones Sidr and Aila which devastated Bangladesh, the disaster-prone country is emerging from the rubble spearheaded by troops of women volunteers trained the Red Cross.

Emergency volunteers tackle Scottish storms

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:58:00 +0000

Volunteers braved the elements in Scotland over the weekend to help scores of vulnerable people.

British Red Cross helps Somali community in the UK trace missing family (and loved ones)

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:58:00 +0000

The British Red Cross is seeking to raise awareness of its work helping Somali nationals in the UK, to restore family links with relatives in Somalia through its International Tracing and Message Service (ITMS).

Get first aid at your finger tips wherever you are

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:45:00 +0000

The British Red Cross is giving an early Christmas present to smartphone users around the world today (8 December) with the launch of its debut first aid app.

CHRISTMAS RUINED FOR HALF BY LAST YEAR’S EXTREME WEATHER – BRITISH RED CROSS REVEALS

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 10:46:00 +0000

Figures from the British Red Cross today show that severe winter weather spoiled Christmas for almost half the population last year.

Extreme weather spoiled Christmas 2010 for many, but you can be prepared this year

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:32:00 +0000

Severe winter weather spoiled last Christmas for almost half the UK, according to our new survey.

British Red Cross showcases resources and education show

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:30:00 +0000

The British Red Cross’ award-winning teaching resources on humanitarian education and first aid will be showcased at London’s premier education exhibition this weekend (December 9 and 10).

Volunteers respond to Exmouth blaze

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:57:00 +0000

On Saturday, emergency response volunteers helped six families displaced by a serious house fire.

Made in Chelsea star Gabriella Ellis shows her charitable side at designer sale at Red Cross shop in Chelsea

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 11:17:00 +0000

Made in Chelsea star Gabriella Ellis popped in to the British Red Cross shop in Chelsea, one of London’s most upmarket charity shops, for its annual sale of exclusive designer and vintage brands, on Thursday 1 December.

Bristol sixth formers stage mock war crimes trial

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:06:00 +0000

A-Level students from Bristol will attend a British Red Cross justice and fairness symposium at UWE Bristol next week, culminating in an exciting mock war crimes trial in the university courtrooms.

British Red Cross launches free first aid app

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 11:03:00 +0000

Have first aid at your fingertips with the launch of the Red Cross’ new mobile app.

Young people still fear stigma of HIV

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:51:00 +0000

A new survey shows many young people fear their parents would react badly if they told them they were HIV positive.

Red Cross volunteers in Syria uniquely positioned to help, but it’s dangerous work

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:11:00 +0000

The Red Cross’ neutrality enables it to continue helping people affected by the violence in Syria, despite difficult and dangerous conditions.

Hull people share culinary secrets to raise cash for Red Cross fire support service

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:43:00 +0000

Keen cook, Lesley Butcher, from Hessle has compiled a unique book of recipes to raise money for the British Red Cross’ fire and emergency support service (FESS) in Hull.

Nottingham youth launch song for Red Cross on Universal Childrens Day

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 11:25:00 +0000

A group young people from Nottingham are launching their own original song online to raise funds for the British Red Cross.

Red Cross launches appeal for new vehicle to help victims of fire in Greater Manchester

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 11:17:00 +0000

The British Red Cross has launched an appeal in Greater Manchester to raise £50,000 for an emergency response vehicle to support victims of fire, flood and other disasters in the area.

Sunderland teenagers share life saving skills for Bonfire Night

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 11:07:00 +0000

A group of Year 8 students from Castle View Enterprise Academy in Sunderland are giving a unique first aid and fire safety lesson on Thursday 3 November at 11am at Castle View Enterprise Academy, Cartwright Road, Sunderland (SR5 3DX).

Vandals damage emergency support vehicle ahead of busy Bonfire weekend

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 10:51:00 +0000

A VEHICLE used to help those affected by fires is out-of-action over the busy Bonfire weekend after being vandalised.

The Cumbria floods two years on

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 10:42:00 +0000

IT has been two years since devastating floods hit Cumbria – and volunteers are still on hand to reassure residents and help to protect them in the future.

Rains bring hope in east Africa, but Red Cross support remains vital

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 10:11:00 +0000

Access to food in the Horn of Africa is improving, but around 250,000 people still face starvation.

Last chance for Liverpool FC fans to bid on exclusive merchandise and raise money for British Red Cross East Africa Appeal

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 15:46:00 +0000

Looking for the perfect gift for your football fanatic friend or fancy treating yourself to a present you really want this Christmas? With only one week to go until the British Red Cross closes its auction of unique Liverpool FC merchandise; this could be your last chance.

SREX is one more climate warning that the world needs to be prepared, says British Red Cross

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 16:34:45 +0000

The latest climate change report predicting an increase in extreme weather related disasters is a further alarm call for the world to step up preparation for future emergencies the British Red Cross is warning.

First aid skills vital during Christmas rush

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 12:11:00 +0000

This Christmas the British Red Cross is urging employers to make sure they have the necessary first aid cover.

Volunteers help family after serious house fire

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:37:00 +0000

Volunteers responded in the early hours to support a traumatised family of seven after a house fire.

Help Red Cross shops raise £4 million by Christmas

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:59:00 +0000

In the seven week countdown to Christmas, Red Cross shops are aiming to make £4 million.

Record profits in first week for first vintage British Red Cross shop in Shrewsbury

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:48:00 +0000

Staff at the British Red Cross’ first ever stand-alone vintage shop in Shrewsbury have reported record profits, just one week after they re-launched. The newly refurbished shop on Shrewsbury’s Mardol Street has seen a massive 114 per cent increase in profits from the same week last year, with a stream of new customers as well as regulars visiting the shop every day.

Mike Joyce to be locked up with fans in support of British Red Cross

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:56:00 +0000

Fans of The Smiths have a chance to be locked up with ex-band member Mike Joyce for a few hours as part of a unique fundraising experience taking place in Manchester’s Northern Quarter this December.

British Red Cross offers first aid advice ahead of Bonfire Night

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:01:00 +0000

Students from Castle View Enterprise Academy in Sunderland will on Thursday learn and share a unique first aid and fire safety workshop from the British Red Cross.

Turkey quake survivors face freezing nights

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:38:00 +0000

The Turkish Red Crescent is working round the clock to help survivors left homeless by Sunday’s earthquake.

Huddersfield family get life saving lesson from Red Cross as 7 year old son diagnosed with serious heart condition

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:45:00 +0000

A family from Huddersfield recently received a special lesson in life-saving skills from the British Red Cross after their 7 years old son was diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening heart condition.

British Red Cross teams up with Nottingham Health Shop to teach life saving skills

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:38:00 +0000

The British Red Cross is teaming up with The Health Shop in Nottingham to teach life-saving skills to people with drug and alcohol problems in the city. Staff and volunteers will meet on Thursday 13 October at 2pm to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the Health Shop’s drop-in centre at 12 Broad Street, Nottingham (NG1 3AL).

Bethany is all smiles after winning top Red Cross award

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:00:00 +0000

12 year old Bethany Hare from Leeds has won the top award in the category of ‘fundraising’ at this year’s Red Cross Humanitarian Citizen Awards this weekend in London.

British Red Cross volunteers offer support throughout night after Derbyshire substation fire

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:48:00 +0000

British Red Cross volunteers were on hand throughout the night last night (Wednesday 12 October) and continue to be supporting local residents after a fire broke out at an electricity substation near Winster in Derbyshire.

Strangeways here he comes

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:32:00 +0000

British Red Cross launches appeal for homeless quake survivors

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 16:21:00 +0000

The British Red Cross has launched an appeal to help tens of thousands of people left homeless by the recent earthquake in Turkey.

Red Cross launches appeal to help Turkey earthquake survivors

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:33:00 +0000

Tens of thousands of people desperately need help to recover after Turkey’s worst earthquake for over a decade.

Volunteers respond to Northern Ireland flooding

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 11:23:00 +0000

Volunteers have been helping stricken residents in Northern Ireland, after heavy rain caused flooding.

British Red Cross opens first ever vintage shop in Shrewsbury

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:34:00 +0000

Shoppers in Shrewsbury are invited to the launch of the British Red Cross’ first ever stand-alone vintage shop this Wednesday 19 October.

BRC response to volunteering vision and fund

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:35:00 +0000

The government’s recognition that volunteers have a key role to play in supporting and strengthening health and care services has to be welcomed.

Are you ready for winter? Get our top tips

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:54:00 +0000

Winter’s on the way, and we’re spearheading a campaign to get people ready for the next potential big freeze.

Volunteers offer support after substation fire

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 11:54:00 +0000

Volunteers worked through last night (12 October) to help residents after a fire led to a power cut in Derbyshire.

Spitalfields market stall highlights the impact of high food prices

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:52:00 +0000

Hardeep Singh Kohli and the Red Cross are setting up a special market stall to show the impact of high food prices on poorer countries.

Bid for the shirt off Steven Gerrard’s back and raise money for British Red Cross East Africa Appeal

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 09:24:00 +0000

Football fans from across the world will have a chance to bid on unique Liverpool FC merchandise in an online auction to raise money for the British Red Cross East Africa Appeal.

Red Cross celebrates young heroes with special awards

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 15:52:00 +0000

The proud winners of our Humanitarian Citizen Awards attended an award ceremony in London at the weekend.

Red Cross begins food distribution to one million Somalis

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 09:20:00 +0000

The ICRC and Somali Red Crescent have started their largest food distribution programme.

Threat of waterborne disease looms in Pakistan

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 11:49:00 +0000

In Pakistan, stagnant floodwaters bring the threat of malaria, diarrhoea and cholera for thousands of people.

Volunteers help evacuees at Lingfield factory blaze

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:51:00 +0000

Volunteers raced to help distressed evacuees today after a factory explosion left eight people injured.

Seeds of Change launched at Red Cross event

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 09:20:00 +0000

Last Friday, to shed light on hunger and food insecurity, the Red Cross launched its Seeds of Change campaign.

Red Cross supports tower block fire evacuees

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 10:37:00 +0000

Volunteers raced to help 40 elderly people evacuated from their flats after a major fire last night (29 September).

British Red Cross schools first aid website wins award

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:36:00 +0000

The British Red Cross Life. Live it website, has scooped the prestigious IVCA (International Visual Communications Association) Clarion Award

British Red Cross calls for more volunteers to help families after house fires

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:46:00 +0000

A British Red Cross service which offers practical and emotional support to people after a fire, flood or other emergency is being extended to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from 1 October. Additional volunteers are needed to support the service.

Red Cross event to honour Stephen Fry and aid Somalia

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 14:34:00 +0000

The Red Cross will pay tribute to Stephen Fry, raising funds for Somalia.

British Red Cross to honour Stephen Fry with fundraising event in aid of Somalia

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 09:35:00 +0000

Stephen Fry will be honoured in front of his family and friends at a glittering fundraising event marking his distinguished career. Guest speakers will include Richard Curtis CBE, creator of “Blackadder”, comedian Jo Brand and illusionist Derren Brown. Musical performances will come from pianist James Rhodes and West End star Ellen Greene.

Red Cross report: 15 per cent of the world in hunger

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:15:00 +0000

Almost one billion people are going hungry, even though the world produces enough to feed everyone.

British Red Cross aid provides relief as floods bring devastation to southern Pakistan

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:14:00 +0000

Over five million people have been affected as monsoon floods have brought flash flooding to areas of southern Pakistan.

Volunteers called out to Welsh mining incident

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:19:00 +0000

Volunteers are on hand to offer support to the families of four miners trapped in a coal mine in South Wales.

Red Cross responds to Pakistan floods

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 14:58:00 +0000

As floods cause massive destruction in Pakistan, the Red Cross is providing supplies and healthcare.

First aiders help TV star after horror bike crash

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:40:00 +0000

TV star OJ Borg donates to the Red Cross – so it’s fitting we were first on the scene when he had a bike crash.

Lottery star OJ Borg gets roll-over treatment from British Red Cross first aid team following bike tumble

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:47:00 +0000

Telly presenter OJ Borg - no stranger to meeting celebrities - saw stars of a different kind after he came off his bike at a terrific speed and was knocked unconscious at the weekend. Thankfully for OJ, who was competing in the Tatton Park Triathlon, help was swift and ready in the form of alert British Red Cross first aiders.

British Red Cross provides support to those rescued in the Leighton Buzzard police raid

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:56:00 +0000

The British Red Cross is providing practical and emotional support to 24 people who were allegedly held against their will as slaves at a travellers' site in Leighton Buzzard.

Volunteers provide support following ‘slavery’ raid

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 12:33:00 +0000

The Red Cross is called in to help at a rest centre following a police raid on a caravan site.

Everyday first aid makes it easy to learn vital skills

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 09:41:00 +0000

Too busy to attend a first aid course? Now you can learn life-saving skills without leaving your own home.

Japan tsunami and quake survivors face uncertain future

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:58:00 +0000

Six months on from Japan’s devastating quake and tsunami, we’ve provided household goods to 91,000 families.

British Red Cross steps up aid to Somalia and Kenya

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:30:00 +0000

The British Red Cross has provided a further £1.25m in funding and thousands of pounds worth of goods to alleviate suffering caused by the deepening food crisis in the Horn of Africa.