My heart goes out to all those affected by the recent earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria. A team of 77 search and rescue specialiats from the UK is already on the ground in Türkiye, along with search dogs and specialist search equipment including seismic listening devices, concrete cutting and breaking equipment, propping and shoring tools. We are also providing vital items such as tents and blankets to help survivors cope with the freezing conditions as well as a world-class team of UK medics with surgical capabilities and equipment to provide vital emergency treatment.
The UK is in contact with the UN on emergency humanitarian support to those affected in Syria as well as releasing an additional £800k for the UK Aid-funded White Helmets to assist in the operation.
Anyone in Turkey and in need of urgent help should call +90 312 455 3344. Anyone in the UK concerned about relatives or friends should call the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on 020 7008 5000.
There are many trusted organisations working tirelessly on the ground to provide food, clothing, and shelter to those in need. The best way to support them is by donating cash to them, rather than goods.
Every little bit counts and if you're able, please do consider making a donation to the Disasters Emergency Committee - the UK government will match the first £5 million of donations from the British public to the appeal.
Image: "Turkey earthquake – a glimpse of the ECHO assessment" by EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.