The award-winning magazine for British Red Cross volunteers and staff

SURVIVORS INVEST IN THE FUTURE

Seeds of Change campaign Treasures of a lifetime Support for Roma women

Issue 84 October 2011

Whats inside
7 8 14

Photos on page 2: Sam Frost/UNP, Matthew Percival/BRC, Ellie Matthews/BRC, Chris Bull/UNP, Harriet Armstrong/BRC. Photos on page 3: IStock, Katrina Crew/BRC

News
Page 4

New bikes help first aiders reach those in need Volunteers comfort family after lightning strikes
Page 7

19

Features
Page 12-13

Red Cross helps disaster survivors invest in new livelihoods From destitution to hope: Roma women in Birmingham
Page 14

Cover story The Red Cross is helping Bangladesh cyclone survivors get back on their feet Photograph Sarah Oughton Red Cross Life Issue No.84 October 2011 020 7877 7117 redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

UK focus
Page 8

What images should we use to promote emergency appeals?

International focus
Page 10

Flash floods wreak havoc in Pakistan

People
Page 19

Star pupil saves a life then sits GCSE English exam

Editorial team Editor Miriam Jones Deputy editor Mark Cox Art editor Valentina Ruggiero Writers Katrina Crew, Ellie Matthews Sarah Oughton and Victoria Watts Designers Robin Stannard, Sarah Trentham Photography Matthew Percival Abbreviations used in Red Cross Life: the Movement = International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross the Federation = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Red Cross Life is published by the communications coordination department of the British Red Cross, UK Office, 44 Moorfields, London, EC2Y 9AL. The British Red Cross Society, incorporated by Royal Charter 1908, is a charity registered in England and Wales (220949) and Scotland (SC037738). None of the information contained herein may be copied, reproduced or used for external purposes without specific written authorisation from the British Red Cross. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the British Red Cross. RedCross Life is printed on chlorine free, 70 per cent recycled paper.

First word
Miriam Jones Editor
It can be hard to imagine Also in this issue, For 12 million people in east Sarah what its like to not have Oughton looks enough to eat. For me, at how the Red Cross Africa providing even one the weekly supermarket is supporting peoples shop is a chore that livelihoods in disastermeal a day for their family is takes an hour of my time prone Bangladesh and a relatively small and Haiti another an uphill struggle percentage of my familys priority in our overseas income. Theres always work (pages 12-13). plenty of food in the In fact, livelihoods and The complex problem of food cupboards and I hope my children food go hand in hand. When a insecurity is the focus of Seeds will never know what its like to person is able to earn a decent of Change, a British Red Cross go hungry. living, they can provide for their campaign which runs throughout Yet for 12 million people in east family and will be less vulnerable to October (see page 3). The Africa and millions more around future disasters. campaign highlights the reasons the world providing even one why people dont have enough meal a day for their family is an to eat and what the Red Cross uphill struggle. Even when food is is doing to help. Turn to page 15 editor@redcross.org.uk available, it can sometimes cost a to see pictures of innovative food 020 7877 7032 family most of their income. projects in Kenya.

Have you got a news story for us?

If so, please send it to us, including your contact details and the date of the event. The deadline for our February issue is 1 December 2011.

Red Cross Life October 2011

Lead news

SE E

New campaign questions why millions still dont have enough to eat
Throughout October, the British Red Cross is running a campaign, called Seeds of Change, raising awareness of the complex nature of food insecurity. Media officer Penny Sims, who is running the campaign, said: The idea is to help people understand the issues around food and why many people around the world struggle to get enough to eat. After doing a survey in August, we found 51 per cent of the public feel they dont understand food insecurity very well, and 33 per cent havent heard the term before.

F CH O S A
NG

The campaign follows the publication of the Federations World Disasters Report on food and nutrition at the end of September, and coincides with World Food Day on 16 October. Penny said: Weve got lots planned, including a video animation to explain food insecurity and what we can do about it; educational materials for schools; a live event to underline how rising food prices affect families; and stories from Red Cross projects around the world to show some of the innovative work being done to help people who dont get enough to eat (see snapshot, page 15).

Around the world, in countries such as Kenya, Azerbaijan and Haiti, the Red Cross is strengthening peoples livelihoods and access to food. We want to encourage funding of longer-term programmes, to increase vulnerable peoples resilience and help avert future food crises, such as the current situation in east Africa. Read about livelihoods on pages 12-13 or visit redcross.org.uk/seedsofchange

Desperate need to step up aid in east Africa

Food aid: children at a Kenyan school benet from a Red Cross feeding programme

Famine, drought and conflict have left millions of people desperate for food, water and healthcare in the Horn of Africa. As the crisis deepens, the British Red Cross has provided more than 2.7 million and thousands of pounds worth of goods to alleviate suffering in the worst-hit areas of Somalia and Kenya. At the end of August, around 12 million people needed support across the region, said Barry Armstrong, disaster response manager. With below average rains forecast for the next few months, continuing emergency aid distributions are vital and will likely be needed into 2012. However, it is also really important to help people get back on their feet,

secure their livelihoods and provide food for themselves as soon as possible, and this is what the Red Cross is doing. Tens of thousands of Somalis have died of causes related to malnutrition. Most of them were children. The Somali Red Crescent has expanded its work and now has feeding centres across the whole country. Through the ICRC and the Somali Red Crescent, aid funded by the British Red Cross is reaching areas of Somalia off-limits to many other agencies. See page 11 for further appeal information or visit redcross.org.uk/foodcrisis

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UK news
Photos on page 4: Andrew Starkey/BRC, Tony Hall/BRC. Photos on page 5: IStock, Bob Collier/BRC, Max Nash/Getty

Pedal power: new bikes will help rst aiders respond to emergencies

Volunteers get on their bikes

Volunteers can now rush to emergencies on two wheels as well as four, thanks to bicycles donated by Land Rover. The 26 custom-built bikes, specially designed by Land Rovers bicycle manufacturer 2x2, are being used to create 13 new cycle response units (CRUs). These will enable Red Cross volunteers to swiftly navigate urban and crowded areas to reach people in an emergency. The bikes can be easily tted onto the back of Red Cross Land Rovers and will be kitted out with advanced rst aid equipment, including a debrillator. Land Rover UK funded the bikes as part of its three-year partnership with the Red Cross, and the CRUs will play a vital part in strengthening the organisations ability to respond in emergencies. Another new aspect to the partnership is the provision of adverse weather driving courses for Red Cross volunteers and staff. The rst of three sessions took place in August at the Land Rover Experience Centre at Eastnor Castle, Herefordshire. Adam Hoskins, a Red Cross service development manager, took part. He said: We learned how to safely navigate a 4x4 through water, keep complete control on uneven ground or crossing ditches and how to deal with loss of traction caused by snow and ice. Volunteers who drive 4x4s as part of their role within the Red Cross can now apply for the training. RedRoom search: Land Rover driver training

First aiders in ne fettle as hundreds of runners and riders endure tough times
Its been a busy autumn for event rst aiders in the north. First, more than 200 volunteers cantered along to Burghley Horse Trials in Lincolnshire from 1-4 September to provide rst aid cover along the challenging 32-jump course. Two volunteers even had the new custom-built Land Rover bicycles (see above) to ensure speedy access to any casualties. On 18 September, 450 rst aid volunteers took their blister plasters along to the BUPA Great North Run, where a record 54,000 I was amazed at the competitors embarked on the challenge. numbers of people The volunteers were equipped with 26 ambulances and stationed at 26 rst aid posts along the 13.1 mile course. Both events threw up all kinds of injuries, from regulation bumps and scrapes to more serious ailments. The Burghley rst aiders helped more than 120 casualties while 653 Great North Runners needed the Red Cross help. As well as providing rst aid support at the run, the Red Cross also elded a huge fundraising team. More than 200 competitors took on the challenge, hoping to raise 55,000 for the organisation. Colin Hoyland, event rst aid volunteer, said: I was amazed at the numbers of people crossing the nish line. All our volunteers were extremely motivated and professional.

crossing the nish line

UK news

Help for unhappy campers at festival wash-out

As people in northern Scotland endured a particularly rain-sodden August, the Red Cross was constantly on hand to provide support. More than 40 Red Cross volunteers had to act quickly in the early hours of 7 August when torrential rain hit the Tartan Heart music festival at Belladrum, Inverness-shire. Some parts of the sprawling site, where thousands of people were camping, were left under inches of water following constant downpours during the night. Emergency response volunteers and staff quickly helped organisers turn a performance tent into a rest centre for 60 ooded-out campers, including families with young children. They also brought in emergency supplies of blankets and heaters from a Red Cross store 22 miles away. Just a day later, the Red Cross moved 46 elderly residents to safety from a ood-threatened care home in Huntly, Aberdeenshire. As the rain-swollen River Deveron rose dangerously high, eight emergency response volunteers equipped with specialist patient transport vehicles ferried residents to other local care homes and a nearby hospital. Ian Rideout, operations director, said: The rainfall brought chaos to many areas, but our volunteers turned out under extremely challenging conditions to make sure everyone got the help they needed.

Our volunteers turned out under extremely challenging conditions

Volunteers provide safe haven following slavery raid

The British Red Cross was called out on 11 September to help set up a rest centre following a police raid on a caravan site in Leighton Buzzard. Police ofcers discovered 24 men in a poor state of physical health and living in appalling conditions at the Bedfordshire site. It is suspected that they were being held against their will. The rest centre provided shelter for the men while alternative accommodation was found and other necessary arrangements were made. Melissa Magna, Red Cross service manager, said: We offered emotional support and gave the men any practical help they needed, such as clothing and hygiene kits. We also provided recreational activities such as games, a radio and DVDs. The rest centre was open for ve days, after which our health and social care volunteers were available to offer ongoing support.

EQUIPPED FOR THE JOB

Last year, community equipment services (CES) helped almost 53,400 people remain in their own homes by lending medical equipment. Now, the service has won a contract worth a potential 20 million over a ve-year period. It will be delivering community equipment across Nottinghamshire for an initial three years, which may be extended for a further two years. Unfortunately, the team was unsuccessful in retaining the CES contract in Leicester and Rutland. However, Dial a Wheelchair services in the Area and the Red Cross independent living shop in Leicester will not be affected. Further changes are also afoot. In April, CES moved its warehouse and ofces to Bilborough, in Nottingham. Recently, it recruited a new director, Douglas Armour, and three new managers. Douglas said: I am delighted to have joined the Red Cross at such an exciting time in the development of our health and social care strategy. I have no doubt that CES will be able to help even more people in the years ahead.

Captives freed: the caravan site in Bedfordshire where 24 men were held

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UK news

Migrant workers made up with rst aid course

Ninety migrant workers enjoyed a rst aid training session with a difference when volunteers made them up with life-like fake wounds, then demonstrated how to treat them. A team of volunteers visited the Eastern European fruit pickers at a farm near Hereford on 23 August to provide a free rst aid session. First aid trainer Amanda Smith said: The training was done with the help of interpreters and we also had therapeutic care volunteers on hand to help promote a sense of well-being. She added: The Red Cross works extensively with refugees and migrant workers, so we know many of the workers are from isolated rural communities with limited access to emergency healthcare. Hopefully, the skills they learned will stay with them and prove useful in the future. The rst aid team held a similar session at Leominster in July, attended by 80 migrant farm workers. At that event, Stefan Borisov (31), from Bulgaria, was made up with an impressive gaping cut above his eye, then was taught how to treat such an injury. He said: It was fun, but people also learned how to treat these wounds and maybe now wont be afraid to help if they see one for real.

Photos on page 6: Simon Hadley/UNP, Lloyd Sturdy/BRC, Tim George/UNP. Photos on page 7: Sam Frost/BRC, IStock

The skills they learned will stay with them and prove useful in the future

Little ones are the winners with new partnership

Parents across the UK will be feeling a little more secure with their newborn babies, after NCT (the UKs largest parenting charity) announced a new partnership with the Red Cross. Following a hugely successful pilot scheme, which received a unanimously positive response from parents, NCT entered into a three-year national partnership on 16 September. Nazmeen Malik, marketing executive for Red Cross Training, said: We are providing trainers to deliver baby rst aid two-hour courses, which we created specially for NCT. This means NCT can be assured that all pregnant women and carers are getting a consistently high quality of training. And with 320 NCT branches in the UK, well reach more than 4,000 people each year. An NCT spokesman said: Parents saw the Red Cross as an excellent training provider one that could be trusted and our members liked that they can book sessions through their local branch.

Of all the Red Cross fundamental principles, I think humanity can often be the most difcult to dene. However, things became clearer when a friend and I recently found ourselves in Spain with neither money nor means of getting home, (a long story). We faced the daunting prospect of sleeping in service stations and running out of food.

And yet three days later, I was back on my doorstep after one night in a 400-year-old French maison and another in a lovely gte with a full belly at all times! While the majority of bemused drivers just drove past us, those who allowed us to enter their bubble enjoyed our companionship and entertainment on their long journeys.

We also shared our different worlds, developing a closer understanding and friendship. I experienced kindness and generosity that went way beyond common language, or age or values. In this, I think I experienced the power of humanity. aodonaghue@redcross.org.uk

ALL ABOUT ALICE

Red Cross Life October 2011

ALICE ODONAGHUE (21) is a young volunteer from Shefeld. In this issue she talks about the kindness of strangers and the power of humanity.

UK news

Short cuts
Support for burglary victims
Kind: volunteers Leigh Wilson (right) and Lyndsey Selby Donaldson (centre) with Holly Gunning and her children

SWIFT HELP FOR TERRIFIED LIGHTNING STRIKE FAMILY

Emergency volunteers raced to help a terried young family in Swindon on 7 August after their home was struck by lightning. Holly Gunning was sitting in the living room with her partner and two young children when the incident occurred. She recalled: There was a huge bang and yellow smoke came out of the sockets by the sofa. Both her traumatised daughters Chloe (aged eight months) and Ella (aged three) suffered eardrum damage. The strike was so severe that it blew holes through the childrens bedroom walls and started a re, causing extensive damage. Holly added: There was concrete all over the babys bed. Fortunately, we were all downstairs or the kids could have been badly hurt. When the re and emergency support service (FESS) volunteers arrived, they immediately comforted the family and provided the children with fresh clothes. Holly said: The volunteers were really helpful very kind and considerate.

Fire and emergency support service (FESS) volunteers in Luton are working with Bedfordshire Police to help vulnerable victims of distraction burglaries. Often this is a crime where burglars work in pairs, with one knocking at the door to distract the resident, while the other breaks in. They generally target elderly people and those living alone. The scheme, launched on 1 September, will enable police ofcers to call in volunteers to offer support in the immediate aftermath of the crime.

New system will improve services

The Red Cross has selected the software for a new IT system to improve the way it collects information about beneciaries. The system will use Microsoft Dynamics and be developed by a company called Ciber. It will be rolled out in phases, starting with refugee services in early 2012. The system will help the organisation work more effectively and gain information about the difference its services make to beneciaries.

Get ready for winter in Scotland

As the long nights draw in, the Red Cross in Scotland is launching a Get Ready for Winter week on 24 October. Following the Red Cross Resilient Scotland campaign earlier this year, the Scottish Government agreed to support the organisations idea for a preparedness week that will help vulnerable people. The main objective is to get people to prepare a grab bag for use in emergencies. During the week, the Red Cross will hand out specially branded Get Ready for Winter grab bags, containing a checklist and useful items donated by Transport Scotland and Tesco. Health and social care volunteers and staff will also be helping vulnerable beneciaries across Scotland access b bag: information and practical help Your gra where needed. Find out more about what should go in a grab bag. Google search: Ready Scotland emergency kit

A matter of life and death

Millions of wounded and ill people could be saved if their access to healthcare werent impeded by violence, according the ICRC. This is the nding of a new report launched by the ICRC on 10 August, as part of its new Heathcare in danger: Its a matter of life and death campaign. Violence against healthcare facilities and personnel must end, said Yves Daccord, ICRC directorgeneral. Civilians and ghters often die from their injuries because they are prevented from receiving timely medical assistance. icrc.org/eng/publications

redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

UK focus
Photos on page 8: Matthew Percival/BRC, BRC, Warner Bros. Pictures. Photos on page 9: Matthew Percival/BRC, Chris Bul/UNP, BRC, Jonathan Banks/BRC

Best of blogs
Mark Cox Hurray for International Youth Day Posted: 11 August Weirdly, for an organisation thats knocking on 141 years old, the British Red Cross seems to be getting younger. You probably wont know this, but half the volunteer base of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies worldwide is now made up of young people. That amounts to 6.5 million young humanitarians in our global Movement. Victoria Watts A beautiful way to spend your weekend Posted: 18 August There are few things I like more than a good cup of tea and a piece of cake add to that a beautiful backdrop and Im in a quintessential English dream. So last weekend I paid a visit to Brook House in Wiltshire, where a sculptor and his wife had opened their garden in aid of the Red Cross (see Cross country, page 20). There was a humongous pond with a rowing boat and pretty bridges, a woodland walk, an orchard, sculptures and endless exquisite flowers. Katrina Crew New Zealand earthquake: worldwide support helps families recover Posted: 22 August Today marks six months since an earthquake in Christchurch left many families bereaved and homeless. Around the world, people generously donated so those families could recover their lives and livelihoods. Worldwide, Red Cross appeals made more than NZ$80 million (around 40 million). Thanks to the publics generosity, the British Red Cross raised 2.1 million. Money donated internationally is being distributed as emergency and hardship grants for people forced to leave their home because of damage, or for people with no water, power or sewerage. Visit blogs.redcross.org.uk to read these blog posts in full

Talking point
Can using images of distressed people in disasters be justified by the money they help raise for appeals?
Yes, but with sensitivity Joseph Doyle, senior campaigns officer (direct marketing) No, it undermines our work Amelia Kyazze, senior humanitarian policy adviser

How do you convey brutal, uncompromising We must be careful not to dehumanise the subjects without being misleading or communities in which we work. How could we gratuitous? ethically continue if we portrayed people in a Its about striking a balance using images demeaning way? sensitively and honestly, but without shying In the 21st century, we must assume that away from tough issues. people can see any photo we use from any A lot is about language and how an image part of the world. Charities should depict is framed. If it is shocking in a way that people abroad in the way they depict people compromises peoples dignity, or portrays in the UK. You wouldnt show a distressed them as helpless and inhuman, child, alone in a dinghy in the Red Cross would steer the floods in Oxford, you Its about clear. would show community With east Africa, the nature and volunteer spirit. using images of famine and the media We use an integrated coverage it receives means approach on the ground sensitively and some charities have resorted and in analysing problems. to more graphic images. At While not every photo honestly the Red Cross we try not to can tell the whole story, do this, but you need a certain it should always be amount of impact in your images to highlight a contextualised otherwise we misrepresent very extreme situation and to persuade people the situation. We are the Red Cross, to donate. not journalists.

Is there an issue you want to discuss in Talking point? Email editor@redcross.org.uk

DOING 2.4 million THE SUMS

Harry Potter fans saw the new Life. Live it. first aid advert in cinemas and online

Red Cross Life October 2011

UK focus

JOIN NATIONAL ASSEMBLY 2012

Celebrate being part of the British Red Cross with 800 like-minded people at the 2012 annual gathering. Whether youre a veteran volunteer or new to the Red Cross, come and experience the camaraderie of the biggest national event for volunteers and staff. Register by Thursday 1 December by completing the booking form on RedRoom. If you do not have access to this, contact your Area office or email nationalassembly@redcross.org.uk RedRoom search: National Assembly Saturday 24 March 2012 Manchester Central Convention Complex

Thanks a million to everyone who did

their bit for this years Red Cross Week. Im delighted to say it raised a massive 950,000, moving ever closer to that magic 1 million. Now bring on 2012!
Mark Astarita, director of fundraising

SHOP WINDOW
Festival chic at Red Cross boutique Style-conscious music lovers at the Tartan Heart festival in Belladrum (4-6 August) got a makeover for their wellies, at an on-site Red Cross boutique. For a small donation, customers had their wellies sprayed silver and decorated with diamantes and other fun accessories. The boutique, which also sold clothing and festival essentials, raised 1,700. Last minute bride Volunteers and staff at the Dorking shop, which specialises in bridal wear, had a cinema moment when customer Jade Wickens (pictured) said she needed a dress for her wedding in an hours time. Jumping to the challenge, he team quickly found her a dress, veil, petticoat, shoes and necklace all for a bargain 130. Jade said: It was like something out of a movie. I couldnt have asked for a better day.

Inspired
I met some amazing people, learned how the Red Cross helps the global community and got involved in rst aid training. It has made me want to volunteer with the Red Cross and be part of its life-changing work
Barbara Agwaziam (16), from Barking, who took part in the Red Cross Summer of a Lifetime project, through the government-backed National Citizen Service

50,000
raised over 14 years by Alfred Hales (90), from Bolton, through collection boxes in shops, post offices and banks

31,852
points collected in Red Cross shops by Give & Gain loyalty card holders since the scheme launched in July

121
bids placed in an online auction of props from reality show Big Brother, raising 5,614 for the Disaster Fund
redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

10

International focus
Photos on page 10: Olivier Matthys/IFRC/PRCS, BRC. Photos on page 11: Sarah Oughton/BRC, IFRC, Reda Sadki/IFRC

FLASH FLOODS HIT PAKISTAN FOR SECOND YEAR RUNNING

As heavy monsoon rains and ash oods in Pakistan caused widespread destruction to homes and livelihoods, the British Red Cross launched the Pakistan Floods Appeal on 16 September. Around ve million people are affected. The majority, in low-lying Sindh province, have lost everything: their homes, farmland and belongings. Many had only just begun to recover from the effects of last years devastating oods. Saifal Panhyar, a cotton farmer from Khairpur in Sindh, was lucky to escape when oods engulfed his village. Panhyar said: Our land is our sole source of income and the crops were ready to be harvested. But the continuous rain and ood water has badly damaged them. Barry Armstrong, disaster response manager, said: Working in partnership with the Pakistan Red Crescent Society, weve used 1.7 million, donated by the Department for International Development (DFID), to pre-position emergency stocks in Pakistan over the last few months. The goods, such as hurricane lamps, cooking stoves and tents, are being distributed in Sindh province. As part of its recovery programme in the wake of the 2010 oods, the Pakistan Red Crescent Society, with support from

RED CROSS FLOOD RESPONSE

Since the oods hit, the Pakistan Red Crescent, with support from the British Red Cross and Federation, has:

> sent ve mobile health units to

the Federation, trained a number of staff in emergency health to increase their ability to respond to future disasters. redcross.org.uk/pakistanoods

provide emergency health support in six districts > set up two water treatment plants and produced over 300,000 litres of safe water > distributed food parcels and other aid such as tents, tarpaulins and kitchen sets to over 100,000 people.

THE IVORY COAST FACTBOX

oast Ivory C e h t in tion delegate rom f d tec r r p a c t RC o s IC , o g n P a Armstro Krist

> The ICRC has been working in

the Ivory Coast since 1989.

> More than 280 people, the vast

majority Ivorian nationals, work for the ICRC in the country. four central and south eastern regions. partnership with the Ivorian Red Cross, established in 1960.

> The Gagnoa ofce covers > The ICRC works in close

Red Cross Life October 2011

nd reas, a o all a staff and t s s e s, acc . ICRC luable thoritie l detainees s have inva at u a d n h r a a e ic ating w olunte o polit visits t ed Cross v when evalu ibuting R e tr Ivorian d knowledg g wells, dis rs or con e in a b n a ls m il le e k c s ily m ed, e m n a f le g peop ce, tracin sions. untry. rmer sistan medical mis beautiful co erful o s f a f o ond ting is a etown ree ordina ory Coast e Ivorians w the a, hom agbo, for th . o n Iv g h s t e a s b G Th ne , by ing rmed and worldli nd zouglou g from nt Laurent G g yet inspir a in h k c r o s d r e W u gin ts a I wa presid f life an hallen f humo is restauran o e s n Ivorian has been c ss the loss o but u se s e t, s maq month ging to witn ent conic which eliciou d c n in e . Challe during the r s and ways violence. music a e s e h y t r id t d n e n u home h o g for t the co ve bey inspirin seek to mo presence in ed forces m g people ngstandin gue with ar Our lo good dialo sa enable

a Krist

International focus

11

Appeal update
EAST AFRICA CRISIS APPEAL
The British Red Cross East Africa Food Crisis Appeal has raised around 3 million. In Somalia and Kenya, the money is being used to provide relief supplies, such as blankets and mosquito nets, as well as food and water, including a high-nutrition feeding programme for malnourished children. The Disasters Emergency Committee has raised more than 57 million. redcross.org.uk/foodcrisis

IVORY COAST CRISIS APPEAL

Dina Bondhus story: fat crabs and smiles

In 2009, Dina Bondhu Boiddya, from Bangladesh, lost his home and job in Cyclone Aila. Now, with support from the Red Cross, hes found a new way to live and make the whole family smile
Shingherchack, where Dina Bondhu lives, is a small coastal community on a narrow nger of land. Everywhere you look there is water and a sense of the fragility of life. During Cyclone Aila a tidal surge pounded through Shingherchack, destroying homes as well as peoples means of making a living. I used to be a daily labourer in the elds, says Dina Bondhu. We didnt have our own land and got paid in rice or other crops. It was difcult to buy clothes and other things. After the cyclone, the regional economy collapsed, because it relied on agriculture and the waterlogged land became too saline for crops. The British Red Cross teamed up with local organisation Prodipan, which specialises in livelihoods, and carried out an assessment looking at alternatives to agriculture. As part of the Red Cross recovery programme, Dina Bondhu and his wife Protima Rani received a 300 grant and help developing a business plan. Protima has established a vegetable garden on a small plot of land next to their new home, while Dina Bondhu has started selling crabs. He says: I buy crabs when they are small, fatten them up for 15 days then sell them in the market for a prot. It is going really well. Before, I had to leave my family for several months to do seasonal labour. The best thing is now I dont have to leave but can stay and take care of them. My priority is to give my daughter a good education. Read more about how the Red Cross is supporting peoples livelihoods in Bangladesh on page 12

The Ivory Coast Crisis Appeal has raised 101,000. Despite the end of the conict many Ivorians are still concerned about the security situation and refugees continue to cross into Liberia on a weekly basis. The British Red Cross has supported a Federation recovery assessment with funds and by deploying one of its delegates. redcross.org.uk/ivorycoast

LIBYA & REGION APPEAL

The Libya & Region Appeal has raised more than 512,000 and is supporting the Movements response to conicts in Libya, Syria and Yemen. In Libya, the ICRC is helping wounded people in Tripoli and taking steps to ease water shortages. In Syria, volunteers are providing rst aid, as well as evacuating and transporting injured people for medical care. In both Syria and Yemen, the Movement has delivered vital medical supplies to health facilities in violencestricken areas. redcross.org.uk/libyaappeal

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12

Feature

WHEN THE DAILY CRUST DISAPPEARS

As increasing numbers of people are being affected by natural disasters, protecting peoples means of making a living is one of the biggest humanitarian issues ahead

Sarah Oughton

In October 2011, the global population reaches the milestone figure of 7 billion. With the earths resources under increasing pressure, the environmental cost and humanitarian consequences are inevitable. Joy Singhal, recovery programme manager, says: In recent years weve developed our recovery programmes which, depending on the extent of the disaster, last between nine months and several years. Our focus is on helping people re-establish their livelihoods and protecting them from future disasters. Nobody feels dignified relying on handouts for a long time. The quicker people can regain an income, giving them the means to rebuild their lives themselves, the better. Losing your livelihood Boiling it down to the basics, livelihoods are about securing enough food, water and shelter in order to survive. It sounds simple. But of course the reality of survival in the aftermath of a disaster is far from simple. For example, maybe you live in an agricultural region along the coast. You are a daily labourer in the fields and made just enough money to get by. But since a cyclone caused a surge of seawater, the waterlogged land has become
Red Cross Life October 2011

too saline to grow crops. There is no more work for you. And like the others in your village, your house, made of bamboo and leaves, got washed away in the storm. You sleep under a makeshift shelter made with scraps of wood you salvaged. At night you hear your neighbour crying. Her husband was a fisherman, who never returned after the storm. Her teenage son tries to comfort her and feels useless. His young siblings complain of hunger. His father taught him how to fish. But all the boats and nets have been destroyed. These are just a few of the problems faced by survivors of a cyclone in Bangladesh. A new start with cash grants Based on experience, including helping people recover after the Asian tsunami in 2004, and Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh in 2007, the British Red Cross believes cash grants are one of the most effective ways of helping people re-establish themselves. Every context is different and its important to do market analysis before helping people start new businesses, Joy explains. We currently have livelihood programmes in Haiti, Bangladesh and Azerbaijan, but each one is tailored to the specific context. Alongside the cash grants we help people develop business plans and provide training where necessary.

New shoots: a Bangladeshi woman works in her vegetable garden

Photos on page 12 and 13: Sarah Oughton/BRC, Amanda George/BRC

For example, in Bangladesh, following Cyclone Aila in May 2009, the British Red Cross is helping families develop alternative livelihoods since the land is no longer viable for agriculture. New options include: fish farming in small ponds; rearing poultry; tailoring; running small shops and crab fattening (see page 11). Recovery in Haiti In Haiti, the British Red Cross livelihoods programme is helping people like Luciana Pierre Jean, an earthquake survivor and single mother from Coteaux (see boxout). As well as receiving a cash grant, Luciana took part in a community project, building stone walls to fortify ravines around her village and prevent ooding. This aspect of the programme was developed after local people explained how ooding, from the hundreds of ravines in the surrounding mountains, regularly destroys their crops.

Feature

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Net result: fish farming in small ponds is an alternative source of income

There are many different ways to help people get back on their feet, but protecting their livelihoods is core to this work

Recovery: women collect water from a pond repaired by the Red Cross

Working on this project allowed Luciana and other vulnerable people to earn vital income, while also protecting their communities. Building a safer future We live in an increasingly complex world with both urban and rural disasters delivering more complicated challenges. Joy says: Every disaster has its different health and care, social, economic and cultural factors. There are many different ways to help people get back on their feet, but protecting their livelihoods is core to this work. Increasingly, it means looking at environmental issues and how vulnerable communities can build their ability to withstand future disasters. redcross.org.uk/livelihoods

Fresh start for Luciana

When Luciana Pierre Jean fell pregnant, she was abandoned by her boyfriend and disowned by her family. She lives in Haiti and on 12 January 2010 the day her baby boy was born a massive earthquake struck. Luciana lost everything. The British Red Cross is helping her by providing a cash grant in three installments. Luciana plans to use the money to start a small shop. Since the Red Cross training, I investigated to see what items are in demand, she says. Im excited to start. I will invest a bit of money at first, to see if customers like the products, before expanding. I hope to save money so I can send my son to school.

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Feature
Photos on page 14: Ellie Matthews/BRC. Photos on page 15: Jose Cendon/IFRC, Ken Oloo/IFRC, Katrina Crew/BRC, Jonathan Kalan/BRC

I HAVE EVERYTHING BECAUSE OF THEM

The British Red Cross Circles project helps gypsies, Roma people and travellers in Birmingham find housing, access services and live independently. Currently, most of the projects beneficiaries are Roma women
Hope for the future: the Circles project helped Roxanna, a single mother from Romania, find school places for her children

Ellie Matthews

When they approach the Circles project, many people are desperate. Despite often facing persecution in their home country, Roma people are no longer entitled to refugee status. Romania joining the European Union (EU) in 2007 left these vulnerable migrants with little or no support. As Red Cross Circles project case worker Mick Quigley says: They were better off as refugees. Unfortunately, many Roma find further hardship and discrimination upon arrival in England. Roma single mother Nadia remembers: In the beginning it was very hard. Being from another country and particularly from Romania people looked at me differently, and were not very willing to help me. I felt so down sometimes. I didnt know what to do, especially because I didnt speak the language. I didnt know what to do to
Red Cross Life October 2011

support my children. I didnt know who to talk with; I was deceived by so many people. After that I went, not begging, not stealing, but trying to get some money to feed my children. There were days when I was on the street with my eldest son Madalin and he was telling me: Im hungry. It was winter, the snow was big and thick, and where he could find clean snow, he was eating it. Then a woman gave Nadia the address of the Red Cross Circles project. They brought her clothes, food parcels and food vouchers, and sometimes even helped with emergency loans. They organised English classes and taught her how to become more independent. I have no words to thank them, said Nadia. They are like my second family and I trust them more than anyone. My kids are going to school now, I have food on the table and I have a house. I have everything because of them. Mick is pleased with the familys progress: Thats what we want for all our families, an independent, normal life.

Independent: the Red Cross helped Nadia move from destitution to a normal family life

Now that her own situation has improved, Nadia is giving something back. She is treasurer of her local Roma community forum and has also been asked by Mick to lead a Roma womens group. Nadia says: Now I can feel proud walking with my children on the street and being able to buy what they need. Recently I was at a gala at the school and Madalin received an award. I was the proudest mother ever. redcross.org.uk/circles

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From food aid to farming in Kenya

Kenya is badly hit by the drought in east Africa, with 3.7 million people affected. As well as distributing emergency food aid, the Kenya Red Cross is helping people become more resilient so they can cope better with future crises

School dinners: the Red Cross provides nutritious meals for children

Precious harvest: farming is an alternative to animal herding, a way of life badly hit by the crisis

New crop: greenhouses enable people to grow fruit and vegetables which they can sell for an income

Mobile health clinic: reaching remote areas

Long-term solutions
The British Red Cross has given 660,000 to support Kenya Red Cross programmes. These include:
Market day: women in Garissa sell vegetables they have grown

> improving access to water and health services > setting up greenhouses for crops such as tomatoes and > irrigating land to help people to start small farms > feeding children at school to help them continue their education.
Turn to page 3 to read more about food insecurity issues or visit redcross.org.uk/seedsofchange peppers, which can be sold for an income

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Feature

THE TREASURES OF A LIFETIME

Last year, the Red Cross received 22.1 million from gifts left in wills. On average, thats a quarter of all money donated to the organisation but where does it all come from? Not all the donations come in the form of money sometimes the Red Cross is left some more unusual gifts

Photos on pages 16-17: IStock, BRC

Charity begins at home

One day, Sam, from Bolton, decided to leave his house to charity. He went to a local charity shop and told the shopkeeper his intention but was so confused by their explanation that he decided to try the Red Cross shop instead. The quick-thinking Red Cross manager helpfully directed him to one of the organisations community legacy managers who visited Sam at his home. Not long after, Sam changed his will to include the Red Cross, leaving the charity 20,000 in cash, along with his house, valued at around 165,000.

Cowboy collector
When someone leaves the Red Cross the contents of their home, the organisation never knows what it might find and in Mr As house it had a nice surprise. Clearly a fan of John Wayne, Mr A, from Aberdeen, had collected a variety of memorabilia honouring the famous cowboy including a clock and a gun holster. The collection was sold in the local Red Cross shop. Mr A also left the charity a mobility scooter which is currently being serviced. If all goes well, it will be used for the local Red Cross medical equipment service.

 Every gift counts, no matter how small, and the Red Cross always makes sure it maximises every legacy it is left
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Stradivarius for their supper

You can buy a violin for as little as 10 but add the word Stradivarius and youre looking at thousands. So you can imagine the Red Cross delight when it was left one such instrument by generous siblings Muriel and William, from Derry in Northern Ireland. They bequeathed the violin after being touched by the kindness of Red Cross volunteers who delivered meals to the pair during their old age. The violin sold at auction for a whopping 195,000. Muriel also left her house to the charity, which sold for more than 100,000.

Unlocking hidden treasures

When Mr R died, the Red Cross received a letter saying hed left his entire estate in Devon to the charity, amounting to around 2 million. Mr Rs solicitor reported there was little of value in the house but the Red Cross legacy management team decided to investigate themselves. On first glance, it seemed the solicitor was right, but then they looked under a tablecloth, only to find a large safe. Theyd already found a pile of keys and among the bunch they discovered the key to the lock. Inside was more than 7,500 in cash, as well as a collection of commemorative coins that sold for over 1,300 at auction. In another room, they found other treasures including a toy car worth 300. The 2 million estate may dwarf these extras but every gift counts, no matter how small, and the Red Cross always makes sure it maximises every legacy it is left. Just one of those coins could buy a wheelchair or train dozens of people in first aid.

Stamps of approval
Two of the Red Cross most unique characteristics are its history and its scope, going back to 1863 and spreading over 186 countries. A gift left by Mr E, from Kent, managed to encapsulate both of these traits. Throughout his lifetime, Mr E collected around 2,500 Red Cross postage stamps and he chose to leave the stamps to the organisation in his will. From Austria to Zimbabwe, the collection includes Red Cross and Red Crescent Society stamps from all around the world featuring everything from Minnie Mouse to mushrooms. The oldest one, from Indochina, dates back to 1914. The stamps were valued at 250 but in this case the organisation decided to keep them for its archives for others to enjoy.

Will Aid
If youre one of the 50 per cent of people in the UK who hasnt yet made their will, dont put it off any longer and book an appointment with a Will Aid solictor now. Throughout November, selected solicitors will write your will in return for a charitable donation, which will be split between nine charities including the Red Cross. willaid.org.uk

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My kind of day
Photos on page 16: Mark Passmore/Apex News & Pictures. Photos on page 17: Chris Bull/UNP, BRC.

Eds new lease of life

Ed Owen, from Plymouth, became a care in the home volunteer in 2010, following redundancy. Hes also signed up as a driver for the medical equipment service, an event rst aider and emergency response volunteer
When my company closed and I was made redundant from my job as personnel manager, I was pretty low. I had been there for 43 years. It was almost like a death in the family and I suffered with anxiety and stress. Id never considered volunteering until I found out about it from the Plymouth Guild of Volunteers. Out of the selection of leaets they gave me, I instantly felt an afnity with the Red Cross. My rst role was as a care in the home volunteer, which I still enjoy doing to this day. I provide care and support to people in their homes seven days a week following an accident or illness. Shortly after joining, I did a minibus driving course, which meant I was also able to transport medical equipment such as commodes and wheelchairs for my clients. Ive
Red Cross Life October 2011

also qualied as an event rst aider. I wanted to be able to help if someone I look after falls ill. The training has enabled me to provide the best possible care to the people I help. When I started volunteering it brought me back to life. People said I was looking more myself. Its extremely rewarding seeing people I visit getting better each week. Helping others has really helped me get my condence back. One man I visit is recovering from a brain tumour. After the tumour was removed, he was left unable to walk, with speech problems and limited sight. Hes been through a lot since I rst met him six months ago. Ive taken him to eight hospital appointments now. Each week his eyesight has improved. So once, after one of my visits, I decided to take him out to

Plymouth Hoe (pictured above left) to see the beautiful coastline. He was overjoyed. It was such a small thing to do but made such a big difference to him. I feel immensely proud of the work I do. Im not just helping individuals, but helping the Red Cross and society in general. Friends say to me now: Youre really happy doing the Red Cross work. Youre back to your old self. I think the Red Cross volunteering experience and training really stands out on a CV. As a result of the volunteering Ive been doing, Ive now got a part-time job with the Red Cross, assisting with the co-ordination of the care in the home service. Im looking forward to my ongoing journey with the Red Cross.

Find out how to become a care in the home volunteer at: redcross.org.uk/volunteer

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Star pupil: Hannah saved a life before sitting her English exam

Hero Hannah saves mans life at bus stop

Young first aider Hannah Niesser had plenty on her mind as she waited for a bus to go to her GCSE English exam. But when a man beside her suddenly collapsed, all thoughts of Shakespeare flew out of her mind. Other passers-by laid the casualty on the floor, but then didnt know what to do. As Hannah recalled: I realised Id basically have to save someones life, which was a bit of a shock early on a Wednesday morning. She continued: At first I was panicking, but then I remembered my training. The man wasnt breathing and had turned blue, so I started giving chest compressions and slowly he began to respond. By the time the paramedics arrived ten minutes later, he was breathing again. Just at that moment, Hannahs bus arrived. With her patient in safe hands, she hopped on board and headed off to her exam. The volunteer, from Gwynedd in North Wales, had trained as an event first aider just months earlier but understandably didnt expect her training to prove so crucial so soon. And the story has a silver lining. When her results came through on 25 August, Hannah unfazed by the mornings drama had passed her English exam with an A grade.

Proud Chris happy to help at first fire call-out

Volunteer Chris Allen felt exhausted but just a little proud after completing his first fire and emergency support service (FESS) call-out to help a firestricken family. Chris (27), from Harlow, only recently became a FESS volunteer, so when he rolled up in Welwyn Garden City late on 31 July it was a baptism of fire in every sense. Chris said: We found a mother and two sons whod been caught in the blaze they were in shock and feeling pretty fragile. Also, the lads had got a bit sooty in the fire so we gave them some baby wipes to clean up. We contacted her insurance company and made sure the family had somewhere to stay before heading home in the early hours. They were really grateful. He added: I always hope that if such a thing happened to me, someone would be there to help so Im glad to support others in their time of need.

LOCAL HERO
Linda Rogerson
Linda Rogerson, manager at the Red Cross shop in Waterfoot, Rossendale
Linda is a diverse and dynamic volunteer giving her time to many services for the past 20 odd years. She is a first aid trainer, centre organiser, secretary, event first aid officer, first aider and emergency response volunteer. Linda has also been the shop manager at Waterfoot for the past five years, where she began as a shop volunteer. A busy wife and mother and member of the Stacksteads Brass Band, Linda also finds time to give talks about the work of the Red Cross to the local community. She looks after all our volunteers like a mother and is a good friend to all at the shop and in the centre. Members like Linda deserve a little praise as without such people there would be no Red Cross. Roger Hoyle Volunteer, Waterfoot shop

Email editor@redcross.org.uk or call 020 7877 7032 to nominate someone as your local hero

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Cross country

Cross country
Nottinghamshire Young artists create a better understanding of refugees
An exhibition of artworks by young people from Nottinghamshire is touring the county as part of Positive Images. This unique Red Cross education programme encourages young people to challenge their own stereotypes and perceptions of refugees and asylum seekers. The young people, aged 12 to 20, took part in a series of art workshops. After hearing stories from young refugees and asylum seekers, they produced an artwork representing the hardships faced by these groups. Gary Mountain, project officer for Positive Images, said: Taking part in the workshops to create their own individual pieces has massively increased these young peoples knowledge and improved their attitudes towards refugees and asylum seekers. The exhibition is touring libraries and galleries across Nottinghamshire over the next year. redcross.org.uk/socials

Expressive: work by young artists highlights plight of refugees

Nationwide Flower power brings in blooming huge total

This years Open Garden season was a smash hit, set to raise more than 136,000 once all the pennies have been counted. People young and old enjoyed days out exploring 200 of the UKs most beautiful gardens. Highlights included film director Paul Wielands garden in Bradfordupon-Avon, which raised a record-breaking 5,000, Blagdon Hall in Northumberland, which raised 4,000, and a sculptors garden at Brook House, in Wiltshire (see Best of blogs, page 8). Some towns chose to club together and hold a joint Open Gardens event including Rhyd-y-Foel in Wales, where ten of the village gardens were opened to the public and a sheepfest was held. Local people and schools made life-sized themed sheep including Chris Ewebank and Lambourghini and visitors voted for their favourite. Other gardens had jazz bands, Morris dancers and guided tours including Tresillian Gardens in Cornwall where visitors learned about the organic and ancient principles of gardening by the phases of the moon. redcross.org.uk/opengardens

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Please send your stories and photos to: editor@redcross.org.uk

Photos on page 20: George Mountain/BRC, Steve Kennedy/BRC. Photos on page 21: Rebecca McIlhone/BRC, Simon Hadley/BRC, Liverpool FC

Birmingham Smoothie bike sets hearts racing

In the Sparkhill and Sparkbrook areas of Birmingham, the Red Cross and British Heart Foundation are working in partnership to improve heart health among the south Asian population. The Hearty Lives project sees around 15 community health volunteers create activities to promote healthy living and exercise. One such activity was a smoothie bike, which blended fruit as people pedalled. The launch, on 17 August, was attended by Roger Godsiff MP and Councillor Habib Rehman.

Carragher and Pepe Reina, as well as manager Kenny Dalglish. The auction, which opened on 10 October, runs for at least two weeks, with funds going to the East Africa Food Crisis Appeal. Other merchandise donated by the club was sold in Red Cross shops across the north-west, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, raising 18,000 for the Japan Earthquake Appeal. redcross.org.uk/lfcauction

Wiltshire First aiders keep the party going

The annual WOMAD festival: an opportunity to see spectacular musicians, eat great food and in the case of almost 400 unlucky revellers fall over and need medical attention. Eighty-five first aid volunteers provided round-theclock first aid cover for the Wiltshire event from 27 July to 1 August. They treated 397 injuries including bumps, scrapes and suspected broken bones. When Sarah Crockett, 34, (pictured above right) fell and suffered a suspected fractured foot one evening, she was treated by Red Cross volunteers before being transported to hospital for X-rays. She recalled: I came to the Red Cross medical centre and had lovely treatment. They looked after me very well and it was very slick. Throughout the weekend, teams of first aid volunteers patrolled the festival area to ensure everyone was safe and well and there was even a field hospital and doctors tent available to help deal with casualties.

London Could interns benefit your team?

To celebrate the contribution interns make, UK Office hosted an intern showcase on 30 August. Kate Appleby, Red Cross volunteering development co-ordinator, said: It was a great chance for staff to learn about the role interns play in the organisation and how interns could potentially benefit their team. Eight interns from different Areas and disciplines spoke about their time with the organisation. Attendees could then mingle, see an exhibition of interns work and eat homemade cakes. In the first eight months of 2011, the Red Cross recruited 106 interns.

Glasgow Family goes the extra mile

On 4 September, around 15 Red Cross runners took part in Scotlands largest mass participation sporting event, the Great Scottish Run, raising around 2,000. Runners tackled either 10k or half-marathon routes through the heart of Glasgow. One of those who stepped up to the challenge was Claire House, Red Cross community fundraising manager. She undertook the 10k run while pushing her oneyear-old son Conrad in his buggy. Her husband Richard pushed their three-year-old son Jasper.

Wales Fundraisers beat the Brecons and raise 10k

Twenty intrepid fundraisers took to the hills for the three-day Beat the Brecons adventure in August, raising more than 10,000 for the British Red Cross. The challenge in the Brecon Beacons was devised by Graham Manning, a Red Cross first aid trainer in Essex and an avid fundraiser. It involved climbing three peaks, cycling for 20 miles and canoeing for 19.5 miles. Graham said: This is the second time weve done the challenge and it went brilliantly. There were a few tumbles and rolls but nothing serious. Everyone melded together and had a great time.
redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

Liverpool Auction raises money for east Africa

Lucky fans have the chance to bid on memorabilia donated by Liverpool Football Club in an online auction. Among the 320 goodies up for grabs are shirts and sweatshirts belonging to players Steven Gerrard (pictured right), Jamie

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Letters
Photos on page 22: Alex Rumford/BRC, Matthew Percival/BRC, Getty, BRC. Photos on page 23: BRC, museum and archives/BRC, IStock

Letters and emails

Please send to: Miriam Jones, British Red Cross, 44 Moorfields, London EC2Y 9AL or email editor@redcross.org.uk Please include a phone number or email address for any queries regarding your letter. The editor reserves the right to edit or shorten letters for publication.

Star letter

Excellent service at a difcult time

Mum has suffered from arthritis in her knee for years but it did not prevent her from getting about, until recently. She is 91 now and is still mobile with the aid of a Zimmer frame. But when dad died she needed greater mobility to attend the funeral service and see to other matters. Your excellent medical equipment service enabled her to achieve this with the minimum of fuss and, most importantly, promptly. Thank you so much. Malcolm Kemp, Wiltshire, Avon and Gloucestershire Area

volunteers would be stepping in to help people in crisis in their time of need. Ive not seen any stories reporting our efforts and I wonder why. I know we need to be asked to help by local authorities before providing the practical support were so good at, and trained for. I suspect those necessary calls werent made in these events. Has the time come for us to start being more proactive in providing assistance in the UK where we are assured safety by the police and helping those who have lost everything, just as readily as we do overseas? Brad Smith, volunteer, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Essex Simon Lewis, head of emergency planning and response, replies: I agree it is difcult to see people in need and to either not be in a position to help or know whether help was offered. You are right that we do not deploy to an emergency response on our own, but in support of our police, re, ambulance or local authority colleagues (category one responders). Operational staff in affected areas were extremely proactive in

offering our services to these organisations, both at the time and after. These offers are not made in isolation, but on the back of positive, ongoing relationships with category one responders. You also compare how we deploy in the UK and overseas. In both contexts, we only deploy when asked.

First aid training helped me think outside the box

Recently I was on a bus when a fight broke out upstairs. I heard screaming, then a youth flew down the stairs brandishing a knife and jumped off the bus. Everyone else fled the scene, and then an injured teenager limped down the stairs holding his stabbed thigh. I immediately told him to lie down and raise his leg. The bus driver didnt have a first aid kit so I realised Id need to improvise. I put my hand inside a plastic carrier bag and applied direct pressure on the wound, keeping his leg elevated. I called an ambulance and continuously reassured the patient, distracting him from the situation. The paramedics arrived within ten minutes and took over. They later said that, had I not acted so quickly, he might not have survived. Looking back, I think my first aid at work training gave me the confidence to think outside the box and deal with such a difficult situation. Samantha Manners London Samantha wins a Parker pen for this issues star letter

Happy birthday, Gravesend!

The British Red Cross opened a centre in Gravesend in 1941. Since then, the centre has provided many services in the borough of Gravesham and continues to thrive. To celebrate its 70th anniversary, the centre held an open day on 2 July, followed by a party in the evening for members, past and present. The celebrations continued when members decorated a lorry for the local carnival on 23 July (pictured below). They won first prize a great achievement! Thank you to everyone who has given their time over the years. Barbara Hareld, John Lines and Helen Matthews, Gravesend centre

Should the Red Cross step in before being asked?

As I saw the devastation caused by the rioters in London and beyond unfold before my eyes, I wondered whether our dedicated emergency response or fire and emergency support

Helpline 0800 389 7820

For confidential advice on workplace or personal issues, call our helpline or visit ppconline.info
This 24-hour service is available to all volunteers and staff.

Red Cross Life October 2011

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Whats working for you at the Red Cross?

Our biennial have your say survey will be arriving on your doorstep or in your email inbox soon. The survey runs from 17 October to 18 November and its findings will be made available to volunteers and staff in the New Year. Email haveyoursay@redcross.org.uk with any queries, or if you havent received the survey by 24 October.

Blast from the past

Volcano forces islanders to flee Tristan da Cunha

Museum and archive collections enquiryredcross.org.uk

Coming ashore: evacuees from Tristan da Cunha arrive in Southampton

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Fifty years ago, on 10 October 1961, a volcanic eruption threatened the south Atlantic island of Tristan da Cunha. The island is a British Overseas Territory and part of the worlds most remote archipelago. The entire population of 370 had to be evacuated by boat. After nearly a month at sea, on a journey via South Africa, the islanders arrived in Southampton. They were welcomed by members of Hampshire Branch, who then accompanied them on their coach journey to a temporary camp at Pendell in Surrey. Volunteers from Surrey Branch helped ease their transition to life in the UK by providing childrens toys, knitted blankets and other comforts. The islanders also had to learn about road safety many had

never encountered cars before, as there were none on their island. Vivien Woolley from Derbyshire Branch volunteered to be a friendly face at the camp. She had lived on the island for two years, so could speak the islanders dialect and knew many of them from her time there. A sick bay and hospital were also run at the camp to care for many of the islanders who suffered from flu, as they had no immunity to the disease. The islanders remained at Pendell for three months, before moving to more permanent accommodation near Southampton. They returned to Tristan da Cunha in 1963. http://collections.redcross.org.uk

Obituaries
Roger Thomas Blakeborough died on 11 July 2011, aged 85. Roger was a member of the Shipley Red Cross from 1979. He became a first aid trainer in 1982, helping at first aid events across the Area. Roger was a keen fundraiser and collector. Brenda Franklin died on 14 May 2011, aged 78. Brenda was a volunteer for 43 years. She was involved in first aid, welfare, home nursing and spent ten years doing therapeutic handcare volunteering. Beryl Kierle died on 23 March 2011, aged 85. Beryl was a Red Cross member for over 54 years. She helped run a club for disabled people, did first aid volunteering and collected money for the Red Cross until she was nearly 80 years old. Joyce Morris died on 1 July 2011. Joyce was a Red Cross president and chair in Hertfordshire for a number of years. She began volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross before joining British Red Cross in 1963. Joyce received a Badge of Honour for Distinguished Service. Thelma Opie died in July, aged 86. In 1980 Thelma joined the Grays Red Cross and became a first aid instructor, delivering courses and providing cover at local events. She was appointed centre commandant in 1983. Patricia Sharland died on 13 July, aged 84. Pat joined as a voluntary aid detachment in 1968. She transferred to Bromley group in 1984 and assisted in the Red Cross shop. She later became a volunteer at Beckenham. She received her 40 year service badge in 2008.

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Photo IStock

Taking part in Dance: Make Your Move was a fantastic and thoughtprovoking experience. Well definitely do it again next year
Sue Darke, Sir William Ramsey School

Over to you
Dance: Make Your Move
Young dance groups can get a taste of stardom by signing up to Dance: Make Your Move 2012. Previously known as Dance for Life, this Red Cross dance competition is for young people of all abilities, aged 4-18. Find out more at redcross.org.uk/dance Start the festive season with a bang on 5 November, when Red Cross shops will begin an attempt to generate sales of 4 million in the seven-week countdown to Christmas. There will be events, sales and special promotions galore. Find out whats happening near you at redcross.org.uk/charityshops

Challenge yourself in 2012

Sign up ahead of the crowds and secure your place on a top challenge event for 2012. Registration is now open for events including: 15 April: Paris Marathon 22 April: London Marathon 22-25 June: London to Paris bike ride 9-12 June: Mont Blanc Massif Trek Find out more and sign up at redcross.org.uk/events or contact challenges@redcross.org.uk

Christmas is coming

Help raise 4 million

Get your Christmas shopping done early at the annual London Christmas Fair on 16-17 November at Kensington Town Hall. If you miss that, browse over 80 stalls at the Red Cross Christmas Market at Guildhall in London on 28-29 November. Find out more at redcross.org.uk/socials

Do you want Red Cross Life readers to take part in an event or promotion? Email editor@redcross.org.uk by 1 December

Visit RedRoom for more information about news, campaigns and events at: intranet.redcross.org.uk