About Red Cross
Emergencies can strike at any time and anywhere. The British Red Cross can be there to give support to anyone affected. We provide the people, equipment, space and resources to support those affected by an emergency, helping them to recover.
We can give support when emergencies happen:
- to individuals and families
- to local communities
- regionally
- across the UK.
Whether it is a fire in a family home or a large-scale national emergency, you can depend on us 24/7.
We have the scale, expertise and equipment to provide a co-ordinated large-scale response with quick and robust support.
The British Red Cross has thousands of trained emergency response volunteers across the UK, ready to provide practical and emotional support at a moment’s notice. For example, our volunteers can set up rest centres for those having to leave their homes for safety because of flooding, fire or bad weather.
Our volunteers are backed by a fleet of 4x4 vehicles, ready to tackle the toughest conditions. Some British Red Cross communications vehicles are equipped with the latest technology.
We also have an extensive fleet of modern, safe ambulances regulated by the Care Quality Commission.
In a major emergency, the Red Cross can set up a support line within four hours and run it for as long as needed. We did this following the London bombings in 2007, the Manchester Arena, London Bridge and Borough Market terrorism attacks and the Grenfell Tower fire.
When a disaster occurs, the British Red Cross is well-placed to harness the generosity of the British public. We can immediately set up a fundraising appeal, work in partnership to distribute funds effectively, and carry out ongoing monitoring and reporting.
Our ambulances provide support to NHS ambulance services for routine and emergency work across the country.