Everyone has heard of the Red Cross at some point in their life, but not everyone realises just what the Red Cross does. The Red Cross is the largest humanitarian charity in the world - it's truly international with a chapter in almost every single country. It's perhaps best known for it's emergency relief in crisis zones such as areas struck by famine, flood and earthquakes, but the Red Cross operates on a much more local scale too. The Red Cross offers services to your community such as:
Medical equipment loan eg wheelchairs and crutches.
Transport services for the isolated and infirm, taking them to hospital appointments, to collect prescriptions or to go shopping.
Care at home and hospital care, visiting and caring for people who don't have anyone else there for them.
Fire and emergency support, where we arrive at the scene of serious accidents or displacements (fire, flood, etc) to support the victims. We have specially designed camper-van like vehicles equipped with clothes, food (including baby food and pet food), toys, blankets, etc and our volunteers will also offer emotional support, and help organise somewhere for you to stay if you need it.
Event first aid. The Red Cross provides first aiders for almost every major events, from concerts to football matches to marathons.
The Red Cross was founded on seven principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. This means that if you are in crisis, no matter who you are, the Red Cross is there for you whether you're a Taliban insurgent with a broken leg or a an old lady who can't carry her shopping bags. The Red Cross is not affiliated with any government, religion or movement - it is completely independent. It is a brilliant, compassionate, amazing organisation that can really make a difference all around the world - so please, please, please - if you can - support your local Red Cross. Time is just as valuable as money, as every person involved is a volunteer (like me!).
