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

Built to last: health and social care

Response to snow Appeals for Syria and west Africa Japan crisis one year on

Issue 87 April 2012

Whats inside
4 5 17

Photos on page 2: Warren Baldock/BRC, Matthew Percival/BRC, Patrick Wack, Carla Dow/BRC. Photos on page 3: Reuters/Ahmed Jadallah, courtesy Trust.org AlertNet, Sarah Oughton/IFRC

News

Emergency responders help vulnerable pensioners during cold snap

Page 4

H&M supports stock donation drive for Red Cross shops 12

Page 5
Cover story Solid foundation: health and social care services are expanding to reach more people in need Photos iStock, Matthew Percival/BRC, Anthony Upton/ BRC, Patrick Harrison/BRC, Bob Johns/BRC, Angela Marshall/BRC, Alex Maguire/BRC, Fabio De Paola/UNP Red Cross Life Issue No.87 April 2012 0845 054 7311 redroom.redcross.org.uk/life Editorial team Editor Miriam Jones Deputy editor Mark Cox Art editor Sarah Trentham Writers Sarah Oughton, Ellie Matthews, Harriet Penrose, Mark South, Victoria Watts Designers Robin Stannard, Rachel Lomas 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. Red Cross Life is printed on chlorine free, 50 per cent recycled paper.

Features

Health and social care: bridging the gap between hospital and home
Page 12

Red Cross Smile Park provides safe space for Fukushimas children
Page 17

UK focus
Page 8

What the British Red Cross does in a hundred words

International focus
Page 11

Appeal launched for west Africa to avert looming food crisis

People
Page 19

Joyce puts her dancing shoes on again thanks to the Red Cross

First word
Miriam Jones Editor
The way our society treats elderly people has been a hot topic in the media lately, with calls for greater compassion, dignity and respect. Surely this is something we all have a right to expect as we approach old age. But as our population ages and cuts hit home, is a basic human right becoming a luxury? Can the UKs stretched health and social care systems take the strain? In this issue of Life, we look at how Red Cross health and social care services can help. Over the last year, we have developed a clear vision of where we can best offer support (see pages 12-13). By helping elderly and vulnerable people regain their

By helping elderly and vulnerable people regain their independence after a hospital stay, we can preserve their dignity and relieve pressure on the system

independence after a hospital stay, or preventing them from being admitted into hospitals or care homes, we can preserve their dignity and relieve pressure on the system. Read more stories of people we have helped on pages 18 and 19. From Junes issue, you will be able to subscribe to Life online by visiting redroom.redcross.org.uk/ SubscribeToLife and following the links at the top of the page. Youll receive an email as soon as a new issue available and well stop sending you a paper copy.
editor@redcross.org.uk 020 7877 7032

Email: production@redcross.org.uk Tel: 020 7877 7029

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 August issue is 7 June 2012.

Red Cross Life April 2012

Lead news

Syria Crisis Appeal launched

Large numbers of people are directly affected by the violence or are struggling with harsh economic and psychological conditions
Unrest: a woman leaves a burnt building in Deraa

As the situation in Syria continues to deteriorate, the British Red Cross has launched the Syria Crisis Appeal. Funds raised will help provide continued support for affected people. In the past year, thousands of people have been injured or killed in the country, and many more have been detained. The humanitarian needs of people in the Homs area and many other locations across the country are growing. Large numbers of people are directly affected by the violence or are struggling with harsh economic and psychological conditions. In search of safety, people from the city of Al-Zabadani have been leaving for Bludan and Madaya, near the Lebanese border.

British Red Cross has given over 800,000 including some funds raised through its Libya & Region Appeal and its Disaster Fund to support operations in Syria. This money has helped buy eight ambulances, 3,000 food parcels, 150 pairs of overalls for volunteers, 3,200 blankets, 1,600 kitchen sets and 1,800 hygiene kits, and has supported the Syrian Arab Red Crescents dayto-day operations. The British Red Cross is also supporting a public awareness campaign in Syria, to ensure the Syrian Arab Red Crescents work is understood and respected.

ensure we are ready to act wherever needed to help people affected. At the time of going to print, the Syria Crisis Appeal had raised an estimated 551,000. redcross.org.uk/syriaappeal

In Syria, between June and December 2011, the ICRC provided: > over 17,500 food parcels, enough to feed 108,000 people for one month > 30,000 school kits to children from poor households in affected areas, each containing a school bag and a complete set of stationery > over 6,000 blankets and over 2,000 hygiene kits > medical kits to treat tens of thousands of wounded people.

Ready to act
The Syrian Arab Red Crescent continues to provide aid including food parcels, first aid, and support to healthcare facilities. Mike Goodhand, British Red Cross head of international logistics, said: Because it is made up of local staff and volunteers, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent is in the best position to secure access in Syria, even where there is heavy fighting. The situation in Syria is complex and fast-moving, and we need to

Response scaled up
The Movement has been helping in the country since before the unrest began. It has now scaled up its response and is providing medical care, food, blankets and hygiene items, and evacuating wounded people to hospitals outside the affected areas. Since the unrest began in 2011, the

READ ABOUT THE WEST AFRICA FOOD CRISIS APPEAL ON PAGE 11

redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

UK news

TIM AND FRANCES BRAVE FREEZING WEATHER TO REACH PENSIONERS

Photos on page 4: Warren Baldock/BRC, Joel Chant/UNP, iStock. Photos on page 5: Alzheimers Society, Matthew Percival/BRC

Cold snap: Tim and Frances prepare for a call out

As temperatures plummeted in February, volunteers braved horrendous conditions to visit the most vulnerable. In Kent, volunteer duo Tim Hall and Frances Smith spent a day visiting three extremely vulnerable pensioners, who were at risk because their usual carers couldnt reach them. Tim explained: Our first call was to a 99-year-old lady, who is sadly suffering from terminal illness. She was quite disorientated by the snow but very pleased to see us. We made her breakfast, put the laundry on and chatted until she felt comfortable. We also went back later to make sure she had an evening meal and put her to bed. Tim continued: The next lady we visited was very cold and confused, and complaining of chest pains. We discovered shed only

recently returned from hospital, so called an ambulance and sat with her until it arrived. The third lady they visited was 89 and bedridden: We arrived to find her very distressed, so immediately made hot soup, found some clean clothes and prepared her breakfast for the next day. We also let her know wed definitely be back if her usual carers were still unable to reach her. The day marked Frances very first emergency response call-out. She said: It was definitely an eye-opener for me. I feel genuinely privileged to have helped the people we visited.

Vulnerable older residents get hug in a box

No matter how freezing cold it got during the winter, hundreds of older residents in Bolton were still snug and warm after Red Cross volunteers delivered special winter packs to their homes. A new government scheme saw 1,000 new winter packs delivered to vulnerable older people. Each hug in a box as they are affectionately known contained an electric blanket, a hat, scarf and glove set, and food that can be easily heated up to save a chilly trip to the shops. Shrugging off sub-zero temperatures, volunteers distributed 200 packs to those Bolton Council had identified as being vulnerable and needing extra help. At the councils request, the Red Cross also ran special first aid sessions for 40 vulnerable groups. Stewart Knowles, business development manager, said: People were really glad to get the packs. And since some were handed out at group meetings, we also had an opportunity to teach vulnerable people potentially life-saving first aid skills.

Red Cross Life April 2012

UK news

H&M fundraisers get a fiver

Volunteers on hand to help dementia patients

The British Red Cross has launched a new service offering support both to people living with dementia and their carers. The dementia care project in Shropshire provides help for dementia patients and carers, with a view to enhancing their quality of life and reducing unnecessary hospital admissions. Specially trained Red Cross volunteers, working in partnership with the Alzheimers Society, provide short-term support to those who suddenly find themselves in a crisis situation. The project is funded by Shropshire County Primary Care Trust. George Rook, health and social care manager, explained: Were essentially there to support both the patient and their carers through short periods of crisis when they are unable to cope. For example, a carer might be ill or exhausted. Just a couple of hours break now and then can make such a positive difference. Our volunteers also work with the person with dementia, doing things such as reminiscing about their early lives. Volunteers make regular home visits for up to six weeks. Besides helping with light domestic tasks, they can collect shopping and prescriptions. They also provide a transport service to help patients attend GP and hospital appointments and even offer relaxing therapeutic massage to help worn-out carers unwind.

It sounds like a seriously tempting offer give a bagful of unwanted clothes to H&M and get a 5 voucher in return. But thats exactly what the high street retailer was offering at 16 stores nationwide during Climate Week (12-18 March). Even better, all the donated clothes then went straight to Red Cross shops to help raise funds for the charity. It sounds impressive, but the initiative was just the latest wheeze by the retailer to help the Red Cross. Mark Astarita, director of fundraising, said: H&M are fabulous supporters of the British Red Cross and have already helped us raise 443,473 since our partnership began in September 2010. Climate Week provided a wonderful opportunity for H&M customers to learn more both about our work and the environmental benefits of donating unwanted clothes. All the money raised by the scheme will go towards a Red Cross project that helps flood-prone communities in Bangladesh prepare for disasters.

What you really think about the Red Cross

Ninety-one per cent of volunteers and 85 per cent of staff are satisfied with the Red Cross as a charity to volunteer or work for, according to the 2011 Have Your Say survey. The survey findings, published on 22 February, also showed an impressive understanding of where the organisation is heading. Ninety-eight per cent of staff and 93 per cent of volunteers are aware of the corporate strategy. When asked what they would do if they were chief executive for the day, many respondents said they would improve internal communications and invest in publicising the Red Cross (see Talking point, page 8). Roger Smith, director of people and learning, said: While the survey findings are broadly positive, we will be working with Area, Territory and divisional teams on action plans to address specific areas of concern. Forty-one per cent of staff and 15 per cent of volunteers responded to the survey. RedRoom search: Have your say
redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

UK news

New island en route to UK

Hang on: a tiny island off Norway is actually going to be towed to the south-west coast of England this summer? It seems so. The British Red Cross is linking up with Nowhereisland, a major new arts project which forms part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad. Nowhereisland, a small land mass revealed by Norways melting glacial ice (pictured top left), is the brainchild of artist Alex Hartley. It will be towed on a 500-mile sea voyage around the UKs south-west coast between July and September. People can sign up to become citizens of the island and help write its constitution. The Red Cross is one of 20 community organisations taking part in the project. Jamie Piriou, senior services manager, said: Nowhereisland is a great opportunity to get people talking about issues such as migration, national identity and climate change and raise the profile of our humanitarian education work. We are working closely with local schools and refugee groups on activities related to this project. These include composing a song with a group of refugee children and organising a football match between Nowhereisland and refugee team Hope FC.

Photos on page 6: Max McClure courtesy situations, Getty Images, Tim George/UNP. Photos on page 7: Matthew Percival/BRC, Chris Bull/UNP

Nowhereisland: an arts project to get people talking about humanitarian issues

Sickle cell service: were always there for people

Life can be very tough for people living with sickle cell anaemia and thalassaemia but a Red Cross project in Birmingham is offering tailored support to help ease the burden. Both these inherited blood diseases can cause serious even fatal health complications. In order to stay healthy, those affected need to keep warm, eat a balanced diet and often attend regular hospital appointments. The project offers advice on benefits and accessing other support groups, and also helps beneficiaries find suitable accommodation. Support worker Antoinette Burton, who has sickle cell herself, said: Its really important for our clients to have a wellheated place and, for example, some need to be close to a hospital because they spend so much time there. She added: A big part of our role is just being there for people. Some of our beneficiaries dont have a close family network and really need someone to talk to. Its such a worthwhile project.

In the midst of preparing for our second Refugee Week at the University of Sheffield, Im grabbing five minutes to write my final piece for this column. As Im just about to leave university and disappear into the career abyss, now seems an ideal time to reflect on my experiences.

Theres no doubt that volunteering with this great organisation has brought huge benefits that simply studying in a library could never match. The people Ive met and been mentored by and the opportunities I have experienced have all been beyond my best expectations.

Ive spoken in front of the National Assembly, set up a university committee, been the British delegate at an international youth conference and so much more. I cant thank those involved enough for their support, guidance and belief in me. adonaghue@redcross.org.uk

ALL ABOUT ALICE

Red Cross Life April 2012

ALICE ODONAGHUE (21) is a young volunteer from Sheffield. In her final column she talks about the benefits she has gained from volunteering with the British Red Cross

UK news

Volunteers help family after nightmare fire destroys home

Its a nightmare scenario: Brian and Lynn Riddy were left in their nightclothes freezing in deep snow outside their beloved home as a raging fire took hold of it. The roof fire hit their Binscombe home late on 4 February, causing extensive damage, but a fire and emergency support service (FESS) team were soon at the scene. Volunteers John Drudge, Sharon Swan and Noel Millier tackled horrendous snowy conditions to reach the couple. Their first task was to retrieve the couples three cats and safely box them up. Lynn recalled: It was like my worst nightmare. I couldnt stop shaking, not only with cold but with shock. But amazingly, John was still able to make us smile a little. The volunteers thought of things we hadnt even considered. They asked if we needed anything from the house, and went back in to find my medication and Brians laptop. Then they gave us a bag of toiletries and new underwear, and fresh clothes because I was still in my wet dressing gown and soggy slippers. They even rang our insurance company to get the claim started. Brian added: We certainly didnt expect someone to turn up like the Red Cross did. Their help was invaluable.

Short cuts
One service: one price
The British Red Cross has launched a standard pricing structure for event first aid across the UK. Recent internal research had shown the organisation was using around 25 different price lists for the service. This made the Red Cross appear unprofessional and resulted in a loss of income. The new pricing structure will be used for all new business and existing smaller events. Larger existing events will be migrated to the new pricing over the next three years. RedRoom search: pricing structure

Geneva trip inspires students

Five students from George Heriots School in Edinburgh visited Red Cross offices in Geneva in February their prize for winning a Justice and Fairness competition. The competition, run by the British Red Cross and law firm Allen & Overy, asked young people to submit presentations on a humanitarian issue. The winners focused on their campaign against homophobic bullying. Their teacher, Tania Peters, said: What the ICRC and Federation do to save lives across the world is extraordinary. Being in a city which has so many links to the human rights movement felt awe-inspiring. redcross.org.uk/justice

Invaluable: John Drudge (pictured) was among the team of volunteers who helped Brian and Lynn Riddy

Gofal is a 1 million success story

Following a hugely successful pilot project in Denbighshire, the Gofal scheme has won a 1 million Big Lottery Fund grant so it can be extended across the whole of North Wales. Gofal meaning care in Welsh is a befriending and enabling service, which involves volunteers making regular home visits to vulnerable older people for up to 12 weeks. Besides helping isolated residents to combat loneliness, the volunteers also encourage social interaction by linking them up with local services and social groups. Dave Worrall, project manager, said: Its all about assessing what people need, and exploring how we can help them make positive changes in their lives. Many people live alone without the support of family or friends, so they can very quickly become completely isolated. The service will now be extended across Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Flintshire and Wrexham, reaching 600 vulnerable people over the next five years. Read more about health and social care on page 12

Maps bring data to life

The Red Cross has created a new maps website, which can help with analysing complex statistical information. Displaying data on a map cuts through the numbers and can help the organisation concentrate resources in the areas which need it most. Information on the site includes maps showing UK population density, flood-prone areas and worldwide earthquake risk. http://maps/

redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

UK focus
Photos on page 8: Matthew Percival/BRC, Sarah Oughton/BRC, Layton Thompson/BRC, Nick Strugnell/UNP, Bob Johns/UNP, UNP, Apex news & pictures. Photos on page 9: Lucy Tatchell/BRC, iStock, BRC

Best of blogs
Ellie Matthews Neutrality can help save lives Posted 1 February 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 life-saving 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. Sarah Oughton Red Cross responds to food crisis in Burkina Faso Posted 22 February Up to 23 million people in Niger, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Burkina Faso and some parts of Senegal are facing a food crisis (see page 11). Erratic rainfall, droughts and insect infestations have led to poor harvests and could cause major malnutrition. Last week, I was sent to Senegal, with the Federation, as part of a team assessing the impact of drought in the Sahel. We are here to support the national Red Cross organisations in these countries in producing a plan of action. Mark Cox She was upset about her reptiles Posted 14 March For our fire and emergency support service (FESS) volunteers, no two call-outs are ever the same. Called out on Christmas Eve (which in itself isnt exactly usual), our volunteers were faced both with freezing residents and a houseful of snakes and reptiles. Husband and wife duo Martin and Andi Hinder were called out to Andover, Hampshire in the dead of a chilly night to find a fire-damaged block of flats. Martin said: One occupant was extremely distressed about her pets they included two rats, two snakes and two other reptiles. Visit blogs.redcross.org.uk to read these blog posts in full

Talking point
According to Have Your Say, many volunteers would invest in publicising Red Cross activities better if they were chief executive for the day. So how would you explain what the organisation does in a hundred words?
Liz Tait, volunteer council member representing health and social care Janet Head, fire and emergency support and event first aid volunteer

The British Red Cross reaches out and helps Before I joined the British Red Cross, people in a way that other large organisations I knew of it as an organisation that provided arent able to. Because of its highly respected first aid cover at local events, collected principles it can cross social and political donations outside supermarkets and helped boundaries to help people involved in major those in need with its mainly in Because of its highly disasters, wide variety of services. other countries. The capacity within Since I started respected principles the Red Cross is volunteering, I have come extensive enough to realise how much it can cross social and to achieve great things at more it is than that. I have an international level met and worked with political boundaries and yet local enough Red Cross volunteers to help the person aged from 18 to 80, all next door. contributing in their own way and enjoying Without the support of the Red Cross, what they do across a vast range of activities. statutory bodies would struggle to meet the For me, one of the chief attractions has targets laid down by our government. But at been the opportunity to carry on learning. The the very same time it can provide a personal range of opportunities that the Red Cross can service to those most in need. open up is amazing!

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

DOING 90% THE SUMS

of volunteers are aware of how their work supports the corporate strategy, according to Have Your Say

Red Cross Life April 2012

UK focus

EMERGENCY RESPONSE UPDATE

SHOP WINDOW
Cash for cleavage Felixstowe shop held a special Bra Week from 13-19 February, inviting women to donate bras they no longer needed. The bras were sold to a textile merchant to raise funds. Allison Latham, shop manager, said: A total of 581 bras were donated and we received coverage of the event in the local media, so we not only raised cash but also awareness of our shop in the local community.

Please send your emergency stories to editor@redcross.org.uk Firearms incident: Lincolnshire, 31 January Volunteers set up a rest centre after residents in a Lincolnshire village were caught up in a firearms incident. Six emergency response volunteers and ten staff members ran the centre, registering residents and providing emotional support to the public. Shop fire: Ilford, 4 February Three volunteers responded swiftly when a fire broke out in the Redbridge area. A double-fronted shop which also had several flats above it was badly damaged, leading to a rest centre being set up for 15 evacuees. Burst water main: Essex, 7 February Four volunteers and six staff members turned out to help set up a rest centre in South Woodham Ferrers after a burst water main caused localised flooding, leading to the evacuation of 40 households.

If theres an incident in your Area, just dial 0115 965 8558 and day or night youll reach the ER team at UK Office.

Inspired
It was very depressing living alone but the volunteers visits cheered me up. Theyve turned my life around. If it was not for the Red Cross, I dont know what would have happened
John Hill, care in the home beneficiary from Swindon

Customers fall for Derrys new look Love was in the air in Derry on Valentines eve when the Red Cross shop revealed its new colourful refurbishment to the public. Specially selected red, black and white stock filled the racks for the opening night event, and the first 50 customers received a free heart-shaped photo frame. The event made more than 2,200. The red ribbon was cut by Julia Stevenson, a volunteer for over 30 years, who founded the first Red Cross shop in Derry. redcross.org.uk/charityshops

GIVE &GAIN CARD

693
customers of Brigg Town Red Cross shop in Lincolnshire have a Give & Gain loyalty card

38,590
The number of UK press articles and broadcast items which mentioned the Red Cross in 2011

500,000
The amount of money the Red Cross needs to raise every day to meet its income targets for 2012
redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

10

International focus
Photos on page 10: Claudia Janke/BRC, Zarina Oleinikova/BRC, ICRC. Photos on page 11: Sarah Oughton/BRC

Reasons for hope: the Red Cross supports a TB/HIV project in Almaty, Kazakhstan

BORIS NEW START IN KAZAKHSTAN

When Boris (inset) found out he had TB and HIV he was in prison in Kazakhstan. He faced long days with nothing to ll his mind but thoughts of death and how his family and friends would react to his illness. He felt certain he would die. Upon his release, Boris sought treatment and was referred to the Kazakhstan Red Crescent, which gave him food parcels and hygiene supplies, as well as vital psychological support to help him cope with his illness. Boris said: The psychologist supported me greatly. I began to look at the world through different eyes and move on with my life. Boris has since become a Red Crescent volunteer. He said: After I became a volunteer, I quit using drugs and alcohol. My life is now dedicated to supporting other people living with TB and HIV. For over a decade, the British Red Cross has been supporting people living with TB and HIV in central Asia. This new project focuses on the most vulnerable, including released prisoners. According to USAID, prisoners in Kazakhstan are ve times more likely to contract TB than the general population. To help provide support for people like Boris, the Red Crescent employs specialised teams of volunteers, social workers, lawyers and psychologists that help them get the treatment and care they need. They make home visits, set up peer support groups and distribute information about HIV and TB. They also work with the government and healthcare providers to encourage people to continue their treatment and, in the case of TB, give them the best chance to be cured. redcross.org.uk/hiv

SUDAN FACTBOX
The ICRCs priorities in Sudan are to ensure that people affected by armed conict and violence receive emergency aid and the protection they are entitled to under international humanitarian law. The ICRC provides water, food, shelter and medical care, and reestablishes contact between people separated by ghting.

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Red Cross Life April 2012

bitat and ha here we r e t a RC w Darfur, w ps and Nick R st with IC I work orth and we ir hand pum ter in n repa dwa teams hnicians to ump groun p to c p e e t ly pp u train ards. Thes k to su ir livestock. n y a t r e e t rag wa the ter le and rge sto ate wa to a la sand peop here the st e to u w ou ten th s on areas ve access d entres u a c h h o f t lt no ea c We ies do lso repair h e currently it r o h t a ar au e s, and rity. W insecu erinary clinic ery school. udanese t if S ake and ve hing a midw rk, but our umour you sh o h n is w e d b h r n g u a w f n re ee hat engin sionalism t w ll t y a e r h b d c p Its fes the so jum ier. is dry es pro sed to parks lleagu at much eas Darfur es hand, s here are u ason was o c e n le h s t o p it some hough peo ears rainy d the make lt affecte ty you. A ditions, las h severely es. n li ic arid co ly short, wh water supp e s m extre and people t harves

Nick

International focus

11

Funds needed for west Africa to avert looming food crisis

The British Red Cross launched the West Africa Food Crisis Appeal on 16 March, to help stem the worsening situation in the Sahel region
The Sahel is a stretch of sandy, semi-arid scrubland and savannah on the edge of the Sahara in west Africa. More than 13 million people in the region which covers parts of Niger, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Burkina Faso and Senegal face severe food shortages, several months before the hunger season usually begins. Many communities in the region are dependent on rain-fed agriculture or pasture for their livestock. However, erratic rainfall, droughts and insect infestations have led to poor harvests and difcult conditions for livestock. Last years conicts in Libya and Ivory Coast have meant that many migrant workers were forced to return home, or were no longer able to send home remittances, reducing families sources of income. High food prices and regional insecurity including almost 200,000 people displaced within and outside Mali have made matters worse. The Red Cross is already working in the affected countries, but more funds are needed to stop the crisis worsening. Action now before the peak of the crisis in the summer will save lives. For ideas of how you can help raise money, visit redcross.org.uk/getfundraising

Alwilayats story: the ongoing struggle to feed our children

Alwilayat Mohamed, 23, comes from a small village called Tin Akoff in northern Burkina Faso. Surviving in the parching heat is no easy feat in a year when the rains are good. But the last rainy season was signicantly worse than normal. As a result, most crops failed, there is little grazing pasture for animals and food prices have risen dramatically. Alwilayat has two sons aged ve years and nine months. She has already lost two young daughters, and the struggle to feed her sons this year is more daunting than shes ever known. My husband went to the Ivory Coast to look for work last October, said Alwilayat. But he hasnt sent any money back yet. Im now living with my parents. Were a big family and we have no stocks of cereal left. My father has had to sell some of his lambs to feed us. Alwilayat has just received a second round of food vouchers from the Burkinabe Red Cross. With these, she can buy food from local traders, including millet, rice, sugar, salt and oil. The assistance from the Red Cross is very important for us because without it we would have to sell more animals, said Alwilayat. The vouchers help us avoid that for a little while. redcross.org.uk/westafrica
Support: Red Cross vouchers are helping Alwilayat feed her family

redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

12

Feature

WE MUST BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN HOSPITAL AND HOME

The health and social care system is coming under increasing pressure from public sector cuts, a volatile economy and an ageing population. In this context, the British Red Cross is evolving its services and has set ambitious targets for growth
Miriam Jones Locally tailored
At the same time, services need to be flexible and tailored to local needs. This is important to make sure people are receiving the care they need and to attract funders. In Bristol, for example, a six-month pilot was launched in March to prevent patients from accident and emergencybeing admitted to hospital unnecessarily. The commissioner, Bristol Primary Care Trust, asked the Red Cross to provide evening and, in some cases, nightsupport. This could include transporting patients, settling them in athome and sitting with them overnight.

Its a year since the Red Cross embarked on a wide-ranging review of its health and social care services, setting out to make them more consistent and accessible. So what progress has been made? We have laid the foundations for a clear national offer, says Mike Adamson, managing director of operations. We have identified a space between hospital and home and between healthcare and social care. Now we need to claim that space and show the people who commission these services that this is our area of expertise. Many volunteers and staff will recognise their existing work in this vision. Whats new is an expectation that people should be able to access key Red Cross services, delivered to national standards and tailored to their needs, no matter where they live.

Photos on page 12: Carla Dow/BRC, Anthony Upton/BRC. Photos on page 13: Matthew Percival/BRC, Patrick Harrison/BRC, Angela Marshall/BRC

Integrated care
As well as expanding care in the home, the Red Cross is integrating its other services more closely. East Anglia and the Gofal scheme in Wales are examples of where the organisation supports the same people through different services, such as care in the home, transport, medical loan and therapeutic care. Mike says: Its really exciting to see how all our capabilities fit together not just in health and social care, but also emergency response and first aid. For example, our emergency response teams might visit an elderly person, isolated by extreme weather and see that they could also benefit from transport or a wheelchair loan. Its like each service is a different strand of the same rope. When woven together, each one strengthens the others. The whole is much greater than the sum of its parts. RedRoom search: health and social care

New service in Darlington

In July 2011, the Red Cross began a new care in the home pilot in Darlington, County Durham. Val Steel, senior services manager, explains how it works: We support people for up to six weeks after they are discharged from hospital. The service is integrated in that our volunteers will transport people home from hospital, if requested. We also help people get to appointments and social events and, if a wheelchair is needed, well supply one. We have built a good relationship with the service commissioner because its a professional team with a common goal to get the best deal for our beneficiaries.

Expanding care in the home

Care in the home is at the heart of this. By helping people at a critical time when they are not ill enough to be in hospital and not well enough to cope at home without support, this service is well placed to bridge the gap. However, it is not available everywhere. Mike says: At the moment, half of all care in the home beneficiaries come from just two of the organisations 21 Areas. This has to change. We have set a clear, UK-wide target for growth, aiming to reach 40 per cent more vulnerable people by 2014. This means expanding existing care in the home schemes and setting up new ones. Volunteers and staff are rising to the challenge in a difficult economic climate. In 2011, the organisation set up 26 new health and social care services, of which 17 were care in the home.

Red Cross Life April 2012

Feature

13

Training and support

Staff and volunteers are receiving support to help them meet the challenges set by the review, including:

> training in how to tender for contracts > marketing materials explaining what the Red Cross can
offer funders

> a national health and social care workshop in May > a monthly newsletter > money to set up pilots to show commissioners. These are
for places with no existing care in the home service, such as Leeds, which successfully applied for funding.

Whats new is an expectation that people should be able to access key Red Cross services, delivered to national standards and tailored to their needs, no matter where they live

redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

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Experience
Photos on page 14: Victor De Jesus/UNP. Photos on page 15: Matthew Percival/BRC, iStock

Im running the marathon to say thank you

Louise Harrand (38), from York, is running the Virgin London Marathon on 22 April to raise money for the British Red Cross seven years after the organisation helped her in the aftermath of the Boxing Day tsunami

I was on honeymoon with my husband, Greg, on the idyllic island of Ko Phi Phi in Thailand, when the tsunami struck. It was chaos. People were running around screaming: Water! Water! Get high up! We tried to climb up a staircase at the side of the hotel, but there was a bottleneck. There was nothing we could do. Then the first wave hit. I was immediately separated from Greg and found myself caught deep under the water, surrounded by bodies, tables, fridges and debris. I remember thinking: Im going to die, theres no way I can get out of this. But at the last possible moment I came up. A couple of guys hauled me onto a rooftop and later took me to a nearby hotel. I survived with a fractured cheekbone, broken ribs and cuts across my face. Greg and I were reunited after a kind German tourist went into the streets, calling his name. Finally he found

Have you got a story to tell?

Contact us via email editor@redcross.org.uk or call on 020 7877 7032 to share your story.

The Red Cross helped us enormously and I am doing the marathon to raise as much money as possible to help people in similar situations
him, wearing only a sarong. The force of the water had stripped him naked and his feet were badly lacerated. We were taken first to Phuket International Hospital and then to a private hospital in Bangkok, where the British Red Cross visited us. I had completely shut down by this point, but they were so helpful and reassuring. They gave us some basic provisions and a letter confirming we were British nationals, as we

had lost everything, including our passports. Three days after the disaster, a Red Cross worker helped us get home, securing an ambulance to take us to the airport. With his help, we got on the next flight to the UK. Seven years and three children later, Im training to run the London Marathon. Im hoping to raise at least 2,000 for the Red Cross. Its going really well and seemed like a good way of saying thank you, while fulfilling a personal challenge. Unless you have survived something like the tsunami, you cannot imagine the sheer scale of what organisations like the Red Cross are faced with. Their support helped us enormously and I am doing the marathon to raise as much money as possible to help people in similar situations. Greg and I have an amazing bond. We are always aware bad things can happen when you least expect them, so we live life to the full and enjoy our beautiful children. We were so close to losing each other and were extremely fortunate not to. If we can survive the tsunami together, we can get through anything. To sponsor Louise visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ LouHarrand

Red Cross Life April 2012

A tweet in the life

redcross.org.uk

Snapshot

15

British Red Cross

Social networks enable you to tell your story as it unfolds. Jamie Sport, social media officer, spent a week visiting services in the south-east, to show how effectively the Red Cross can use them
Highlights

30 January This week Im visiting some of our UK services, meeting volunteers who dedicate their time to helping people in crisis. Ill be reporting my trip on Facebook and Twitter. Thank you to Land Rover for providing the vehicle 31 January, Enfield This is the biggest emergency vehicle in our inventory, used for emergency response, command and control and event first aid

1 February, Cheshunt First call of the day. House fire; evacuated residents supported by our fire and emergency support service (FESS) unit 1 February, Horsham Arrived in West Sussex to visit Joyce (left) and care in the home volunteer Irene (read their story on page 19)

My week in numbers

280 Facebook likes 38 tweets and 125 re-tweets Visited nine services Attended two emergency call-outs Travelled 500 miles

2 February, Norwich Visiting care in the home today. Sixty volunteers help 400 people across 3,000 square miles per year regain independence at home

Tell your Red Cross story on twitter.com/britishredcross and facebook.com/britishredcross

redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

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My kind of day
Photos on page 16: Matthew Percival/BRC. Photos on page 17: Patrick Wack/BRC

Marys caught the fundraising bug

Mary Kavanagh, from Highgate, has been fundraising for the British Red Cross since 2004. She raises money throughout the year, including Red Cross Week, through cake sales, raffles, jumble sales and collections
The first fundraising event I organised was a dinner at my daughters school. It was after the tsunami happened I just couldnt sit back, I had to do something. It was the most fabulous evening, and we raised 4,500. The pupils put on lots of different entertainments including singing, an orchestra, musical recitals, and a dance troupe. After that I was hooked on fundraising, it just snowballed from there. When Im outside a supermarket with a Red Cross bucket, I always look people in the eye, smile and say hello. And I always thank people when theyve given, even if its only 20p. I dont shake my bucket, but I do wear a sash so that people can easily see Im collecting for the Red Cross. You get so many fundraising buckets shoved at you when you leave a supermarket, but the Red Cross is such a strong brand, it works.
Red Cross Life April 2012

Last year for Red Cross Week, I went door-to-door fundraising down my road for the first time. I was a bit nervous beforehand. I posted a letter to everyone in my street, telling them who I was, and my address, and about Red Cross Week. Then I went door-to-door to collect money. It worked really well. Most people gave something, even if it was a small donation. I raised around 218. I met so many people whom I hadnt seen before, and they were impressed that I had taken the initiative. My neighbours mostly live in blocks of flats so I got lots of exercise going up and down stairs too! Red Cross Week is special because its so intense. This year Im planning to expand my door-to-door fundraising by a few streets. Im also collecting outside Morrisons, Sainsburys

and M&S. My collection boxes are going in lots of places including the school, the hairdresser and even my husbands local pub. I always say to people that if they cant give money there are other things they can do. They could give a couple of hours of their time to fundraise, or donate a prize for one of my raffles. It all helps to support the Red Cross work. Ive managed to give the fundraising bug to my daughter. Shes 23 now and regularly does charity work. In November she camped out overnight to raise money for a homeless charity. She helps me out too, making my Red Cross posters. Fundraising is one thing Im really proud Ive passed on to her.

Find out how to help during Red Cross Week. Contact your local fundraiser on 0844 412 2811

Feature

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Safe space: children enjoy the Red Cross Smile Park

Freedom to play for Fukushimas children

One year on from the devastating earthquake, tsunami and ensuing nuclear crisis which struck Japan in March 2011, the Red Cross is supporting an indoor playground for children who are barely allowed to play outside
Mark South
Faced by the threat of radiation, all the citys kindergartens have undergone decontamination work. The top layer of soil is being removed from their playgrounds and radiation detectors installed inside and out. Despite these safeguards, however, levels remain raised and childrens time outdoors is strictly limited. Some kindergartens allow their pupils as little as 15 minutes a day outside. The level of radiation is still high so we are afraid that if the children touch the play equipment outside it could affect their health, explains Yasukazu Ejiri, director of the nearby Suginone kindergarten. For children to play outside is very important but they cant do it now, so we try to provide alternatives, where it is safe. This is where the Smile Park comes in, providing a large indoor space for children to play and exercise freely. Initially opening for nine days, and able to host up to 250 children each day, the Japanese Red Cross is planning to open the park in different rented locations across the city at least four more times during the year more often if it can secure space. For 74-year-old Tomoko Saito, a Red Cross volunteer for 20 years, helping at the Smile Park is one of her more unusual duties, but also one of her most rewarding. It makes me so happy to see the kids being so lively, she says. I really want children to have an environment where they can live and play, and where they feel safe and secure.

In a cavernous hall, six immaculately dressed civic dignitaries are poised, scissors at the ready, solemnly dispensing their roles in a ribbon-cutting. Seconds later, tightly co-ordinated snips complete, the air of formality gives way to whoops of delight as hordes of kindergarten children dive into a ball pool and bound onto a bright pink bouncy-castle. This is the Red Cross Smile Park in Fukushima City where the nuclear power plant was severely damaged by last years disaster. The smiles and happy voices from the children are great to see and hear, says kindergarten teacher Shoko Tomita. I was surprised the Red Cross was doing this, but I thought it was really good.

How has the Red Cross helped? > Japanese Red Cross Society
volunteers have worked a combined total of 162,538 days assisting in evacuation centres, helping people clear their homes, raising funds, cooking and distributing meals to evacuees. workers have provided counselling to 14,039 people in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima.

> 718 Red Cross psychosocial

> The British Red Cross raised 14.2

million to support the relief and recovery effort.

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People

HOW TESS BECAME A TELEBUDDY IN HER 80s

Tess Rees was so impressed by the Red Cross support following her husbands death that, aged 82, she signed up as a volunteer and hasnt looked back. The sudden bereavement hit Tess hard until she was referred to the Red Cross, which runs a befriending service for older people in North Wales. Support worker Sue Whalley visited her Denbighshire home every week, and their weekly chats helped tremendously. Tess recalled: I was alone and feeling sorry for myself. I thought there must be other people like me who I could befriend, but I didnt know how to find them. Sues visits made all the difference. Later, Sue set up a Telebuddies scheme, where volunteers make weekly phone calls to those supported by the befriending service. Remembering Tess had once mentioned working for the telephone exchange, Sue asked her to volunteer. And now Tess is a runaway success as a telebuddy. Shes been described by one grateful befriendee as Mother Teresa and lots of service users now wait eagerly by the phone for their weekly chat. Tess said: When I call, I can hear people become more cheerful and start to laugh while we enjoy a friendly chat. What could be more rewarding than that?
redcross.org.uk/uksocialcare

Photos on page 18: Chris Bull/UNP, Catherine Bates/BRC. Photos on page 19: Matthew Percival/BRC, Carla Dow/BRC, Matthew Percival/BRC.

Chloe says thanks with a gift

When Chloe Pickering suffered a debilitating illness, a Red Cross wheelchair made a world of difference and now her family have raised hundreds of pounds to say thank you. Two years ago, Chloe had a severe autoimmune reaction, which caused severe arthritis to attack her joints and left her temporarily unable to walk. Chloes worried parents, Tony and Katrina, contacted their local medical equipment service in Northampton and they promptly sent a wheelchair. Tony said: The Red Cross was fantastic. The chair meant she didnt miss out on school, family activities, seeing her friends or even going on the annual Brownie trip. Nearly two years on, ten-year-old Chloe has made a full recovery and even won nine medals for her gymnastic skills. And her grateful family have donated 1,600 to the Red Cross Big Wheel Appeal, which is raising 16,000 to buy 80 new wheelchairs in Northampton. Chloe said: When I was ill, I couldnt do what I wanted and missed lots of school. Having the wheelchair meant I could go back to school and go out with my friends to have fun. Tony said: The whole family would have been housebound if we hadnt had the wheelchair. We would have been lost without it.

Thankful: Chloe Pickering (centre) with her family (top row) and Red Cross staff Justin Prescott and Mary Morgan

People

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Joyce gets back on her dancing feet

Thanks for our pierwszej pomocy [first aid] course

A community group of Polish families with disabled children has thanked the Red Cross for their brilliant bespoke first aid course. The group of around 20 families meets weekly at a social club in Southampton, and asked the Red Cross for help. Volunteer trainer Azalia Gosling said: We regularly help people with disabilities and with specific cultural needs, so this group ticked both boxes. She added: Bespoke training is very important as students know precisely what they will get and can learn at their own pace. Anna Weglarek (pictured) took her disabled nine-year-old daughter, Alicja. She said: I thought it was very useful and hands-on. Its good to have the practice, so if something happens in real life youll be ready. Its made me feel more confident. Alicja added: It was brilliant. I prefer to learn by having a go so I was glad we could do that I learned a lot.

Photo caption of 10-18 words on one or two lines ad nauseum ad nauseum ad nauseum ad naus

FIRST AID DRAMA AT BAFTAS

Event first aider Emma Jones (pictured left) was enjoying hobnobbing with the stars at the BAFTAs on 12 February but duty soon called. As often happens, the big drama happened at the most inopportune moment. Emma said: One young man who suffers from epilepsy had queued in the cold since 1am to get a good spot. However, the moment the celebrity guests started coming down the red carpet, he suffered his first seizure in six months and missed seeing all his favourite stars. The volunteers acted fast. She said: We quickly took him back to the ambulance to check him over. He was very distressed, so we spent ages calming him down as well as monitoring him. Eventually, he made a full recovery and was very thankful. She added: Id been so busy treating the patient that I missed all the celebrity arrivals as well, but my colleague managed a sneaky peek at Brad Pitt, which I was very jealous about!
redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

Good company: Irene (right) helped Joyce (left) get back on her feet after a hospital stay

When outgoing widow Joyce Streatfield was laid low by illness, she struggled at home but a Red Cross volunteer soon had her smiling again. Joyce a vivacious, energetic 76-year-old had to spend time in hospital with pneumonia and a collapsed lung. Once back at home, she felt very weak and struggled to keep up her usual routine. So she called the Red Cross. The pensioner recalled: I knew about the care in the home service because they were such a great help when my husband was dying. Sure enough, volunteer Irene Rix soon came knocking. Joyce said:

Irene visited for four weeks. She was so helpful taking me shopping and to the bank but she was also someone I could chat to. And when youre a widow on your own, company is just as important as help with the practical stuff. She was wonderful. She said: Its a wonderful service. Without people like Irene, where would the elderly be when they cant manage? It was so reassuring to know she was only a phone call away. Now Im back to my old self going to ballroom dancing, hosting tea dance fundraisers and visiting friends at the nearby retirement home.

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Cross country

Cross country
Shropshire Something to get animated about
The British Red Cross young carers group in Shropshire had the chance to get creative and voice their story in a special half-term project from 13-15 February. Ten children, aged 8-12, teamed up with multimedia charity HIVE to produce a short video animation using handmade plasticine models. The carers decided to tell a story based on all their experiences through one central character Carla the Carer, who cares for her mother and has other young carer friends. Shauna Bowen, aged eight, took part in the project. She cares for her dad Neil who broke his back and suffers from cancer. She said: At home I help look after my dad. I help him get up, and wash his back. I let the dog out and make sure he has the things he needs. I have really enjoyed the project and making all the models and I have made friends. I hope it helps other people understand what we do.

Model maker: young carer Chloe Fowles, aged ten, with plasticine characters made for the project

Edinburgh Lothian Ball goes Greek

If you imagined you saw a crowd of ancient Greeks walking through Edinburgh last month, your eyes werent necessarily playing tricks. They robe-wearing revellers were probably on their way to the Lothian Ball which this year had a distinctly classical flavour in honour of its latest theme: a night at Olympia. Presumably because the Parthenon was unavailable, partygoers instead headed for the more sedate surroundings of the Prestonfields House Hotel near the city centre on 3 March. Flora Walker, event organiser, said: Given the Olympics are coming to the UK this summer, we thought it would be a fun idea to have an ancient Greek theme. As always it was great evening, and our supporters were incredibly generous in showing their support for the Red Cross and all the good work we do. The event raised 42,000. Thats a lot of drachmas.
Grecian glamour: Flora Walker with her husband Mike (left); Pentland Rhythmic Gymnasts (above right) and ball hostesses, in togas (below right)

Red Cross Life April 2012

Cross country

21

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

Photos on page 20: Andrew Hartney/Caters News Pix , Laura Thompson/BRC.

Most of the abseilers were women, keen to impress their boyfriends and husbands

Belfast River Prance for refugee services

Queens University Red Cross Group in Belfast hosted a traditional music night on 14 March. A warm-up for the St Patricks Day festivities on 17 March, the event featured performances from the universitys traditional music group, first and second year medical students and a ceilidh. But the highlight of the evening was River Prance an unforgettable interpretation of the world famous Irish dance extravaganza. All proceeds were donated to the local Red Cross refugee services.

Worcester Peer educators praised

A group of Worcester secondary school pupils were recognised for their HIV peer education work at the University of Worcester on 29 February. The gala event was the culmination of a project during which the 14 to 16-yearolds have worked hard to pass on important messages about HIV to their classmates. The pupils were presented with Red Cross achievement awards and an Open College Network Level 1 certificate. One of the young people said: Ive learned to work as a team member and value what other people have to say. Ive learned a lot about stigma, and how to empathise and put myself in other peoples shoes.

Hampshire 600 years of service

Twenty-one volunteers from Romsey and North Baddesley, in Hampshire, received long service badges in recognition of their work at the groups annual dinner on 20 January. One volunteer, Wendy Knight MBE, picked up her 60-year service badge having joined in 1951 at the tender age of nine. The other volunteers had given between 10 and 45 years of service, adding up to an impressive total of 600 years. Pamela Bundy, a member of Hampshires volunteer council, said: These special people have generously given up many, many hours throughout their lifetimes to help others in crisis in their local communities.

Buckinghamshire The leap of love

Thirty-one fearless fundraisers descended a 120-foot freefall drop to raise more than 3,600 for Red Cross emergency equipment in Buckinghamshire. The fundraisers were taking part in the romantically named Lovers Leap abseil, on 11 February, in the atrium of the House of Fraser store in High Wycombe. Sharon Cooper, senior community fundraiser, said: Most of the abseilers were women, keen to impress their boyfriends and husbands. We also had a couple who did the abseil together with their children looking on. The atmosphere was fantastic. All of our participants and their supporters were so generous with their contributions and really cheered everyone on. I would like to say a really big thank you to all of them and also to House of Fraser for allowing us to hold the event in their store. redcross.org.uk/adrenaline

Northumbria Students flock to shop and rock

Some of Britains most sought after up-and-coming bands took to the stage on 19 February for the Shop and Rock festival at Northumbria University. Bands Hyde & Beast, Symphonic Pictures and The Green Hour performed at the fashion and music event, which raised nearly 500 for the Red Cross. The day kicked off with a vintage sale including a catwalk show, followed by a raffle with fabulous retro prizes, before the evenings entertainment. Merry Arnold, one of the event organisers, said: Shop and Rock was such a fun day and night. The clothes from the Red Cross looked fantastic on the catwalk and were all sold afterwards.

Photos on page 21: Purepix, Phil Smyth, iStock

London Baby first aid toddles on

The Red Cross once again showed parents and pregnant women how to keep their little ones safe at the Baby Show at London Excel from 24-26 February. Sho Minamitani, a training team leader, demonstrated basic baby and toddler first aid skills and answered questions. The event attracted tens of thousands of people, including four mums who won complementary tickets in a Red Cross competition.
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Letters
Photos on page 22: BRC, BRC, Getty Images. Photos on page 23: Danny de Feu, 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

Jakes class act for the Red Cross

Did you know Joan Whittington?

Its good to talk

We held our first ever East Anglia communitybased first aid networking and partnership day on 3 February at our Norwich offices. Over 60 people attended, including representatives of a number of external organisations from across East Anglia and colleagues from other Areas. The agenda included two fascinating speakers, a partnership and project building workshop and a networking lunch. The day was very successful, with several new partnerships and projects emerging from it. The team were conscious of not just bringing people together, but connecting people as well. It was important to us that the day was about making partnerships, igniting ideas and most of all giving people food for thought of just how much we can achieve together. Thank you to all those who put time and effort into organising the event. David Jessup Community-based first aid manager, East Anglia

Dynamic: Joan Whittington (centre) former director of Overseas Branches

Young fundraiser: Jake Porter, aged eight, inspired his class to raise 500 for the Red Cross

I am researching the history of humanitarian aid, and the work of the British Red Cross overseas, after the Second World War. I am particularly interested in the organisations work in Britains colonies it had active branches in Kenya, Tanzania (Tanganyika), Malawi (Nyasaland), Malaya, Cyprus and Aden. A fascinating and dynamic figure of the post-war period was Joan Whittington, British Red Cross director of Overseas Branches. If there are any former volunteers or staff members who worked in the colonies, or who knew Joan, Id be very grateful either to speak to you, or if you could send me your recollections. Andrew Thompson Professor of modern history, University of Exeter 07972 787604, A.S.Thompson@exeter.ac.uk

Justice and Fairness on the inside

Richard Swann and Viv Thompson, two officers from Portland Young Offenders Institution, have been running Red Cross Justice and Fairness training sessions in the prison. They believe this resource can have a lasting impact on prisoners rehabilitation. For the first time in Richard and Vivs combined experience of 40 years, prisoners are coming to see them after the course, wishing to discuss topics covered and aspects of their own experiences. Two prisoners in particular, described as future inner-city gang godfathers, said that attending the course has changed their views about the management of their gangs, and their attitudes towards coercing young children to join them. The prison has also contributed boxes of ink cartridges and mobile phones for us to recycle and add to our local fundraising, which will pay for the sessions. Jamie Piriou Senior services manager, Dorset

Helpline 0800 389 7820

In our class at school we each had to do a presentation on our favourite charity. Then we all had to vote for which charity to support, and the winner would get the money from our class fundraising. I chose the British Red Cross, because my dad works for them as a first aid trainer, and they do a lot to help people everywhere. I stood up in front of the class and told all my friends about the Red Cross. Then we all voted and I was really excited when the Red Cross won! My class did fundraising events and stalls and we raised 500. My dad came to the school assembly to see us do a PowerPoint show about the Red Cross, for Year 4 and their parents. We gave him the cheque for the British Red Cross. Everyone clapped and cheered. My dad said he was really proud. My mum said it was very emotional. Jake Porter Madginford Park Junior School, Maidstone Jake wins a Parker pen for this issues star letter

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 April 2012

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Awards
Gongs for Welsh projects > The team of volunteers from the Gofal service in Wales received the new British Red Cross Dunant Award on 17 February. The award was introduced last year to recognise the achievements of teams who have gone over and above the call of duty. > The Red Cross PIC&MIX project in Wrexham, which raises awareness about migration issues among young people, won a Youth Work in Wales Excellence Award. The project scooped the top prize of the Global Citizenship category at the prestigious award ceremony on 23 February at the SWALEC Stadium in Cardiff.

Blast from the past

Museum and archive collections enquiryredcross.org.uk

Have you or someone you know won an award? Email editor@redcross.org.uk

Falklands War: support for servicemen and their families

Thirty years ago, in April 1982, the crisis in the Falkland Islands escalated into a full-blown conflict. When the Queen Elizabeth II sailed for the South Atlantic the following month, 12 Red Cross volunteers, including an ambulance crew, were on duty to give first aid and comfort to the crowd who gathered to see the servicemen depart. Officers from the Red Cross and St John Service Hospitals Welfare Department joined the converted hospital ship, SS Uganda (pictured above), anchored in Falkland Sound. There, they offered therapy to the wounded. This included talking with patients, writing letters, playing games and

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making toys for service personnel to bring home to their children. The Red Cross tracing and message service helped people keep in contact with family members on the Islands, who were cut off from communication. In total, 110 messages were relayed from the organisations London office to its Falkland Islands branch, which could receive telex messages. When wounded service personnel arrived back in the UK, Red Cross and St John Service Hospitals staff comforted and found overnight accommodation for anxious relatives who arrived at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Swindon. After hostilities were over, the Red Cross transferred money to the Falklands branch, donated by members of the British public, to help elderly people and families with young children who lost everything in the fighting. http://collections.redcross.org.uk

Obituaries
Patricia Cunningham Tweedie died on 31 December, aged 92. Pat, as she was known, joined the Red Cross in 1955 in Dumfries and Galloway. She was involved in first aid, welfare and activities for people with disabilities. She received Badges of Honour for Outstanding and Devoted Service and a Voluntary Medical Services Medal. Joy Kingston died on 18 December, aged 84. Joy joined Harrow centre during the Second World War, where she was involved in packing food parcels and sending Red Cross messages. She later became centre secretary and worked there for 49 years until her retirement. She received the Badge of Honour for Distinguished Service and life membership. Mehran Sabbagh died on 2 December, aged 52. Mehran was Norfolk volunteer council chair and was involved with several services, including refugee services, event first aid and emergency response. He showed special commitment to a project supporting Congolese families, who arrived in Norwich after living in refugee camps in Zambia. Pam Stinson died on 16 November, aged 77. Pam started volunteering for the Red Cross in Sheffield aged 19. Primarily a first aider, Pam regularly volunteered at Sheffield Arena and there was a minutes applause in her memory at the Sheffield Steelers home game after she died. She received the Badge of Honour for Devoted Service and the Voluntary Medical Service Medal. Monica Suffolk died on 31 December, aged 87. Monica joined in 1941 as a voluntary aid detachment in Surrey. She became Leatherhead centre organiser, raising money for its first ambulance in 1970. She became an honorary vice president in 1999 and served as a branch trustee until 2002. She received Badges of Honour for Outstanding and Devoted Service. Arthur Yates died on 11 January, aged 72. Arthur had been a volunteer for four years. He volunteered for the medical equipment and event first aid services in Clacton. He continued volunteering even while in hospital receiving treatment for cancer.

redroom.redcross.org.uk/life

Photos: Matthew Percival/BRC, iStock

hat. With millions of ways to get involved this Red Cross Week, contact your local fundraiser to find one that suits you
Nick Young, British Red Cross chief executive

There are a million ways you can help raise 1 million this Red Cross Week.

BE ONE IN A MILLION

Everyon es

cu

t ou

se r ndrai u f ea

Its time to put on your fundraising

to

Week s s o r C Red y 2012 6-12 Ma

redcross.org.uk/ redcrossweek

Contact your local fundraiser: 0844 412 2811 or email redcrossweek@redcross.org.uk

Over to you
Open Gardens
A glorious garden, a cup of tea and a delicious slice of cake theres no better way to spend a spring or summers day. Take your pick from hundreds of beautiful Red Cross open gardens across the country. Find one near you at redcross.org.uk/opengardens

Humanity in War photo exhibition

See incredible and moving pictures from conflict zones around the world at the ICRCs Humanity in War exhibition at Belfast City Hall from 3 April 31 May. Contact Kate Gormley on kgormley@redcross.org.uk

Bike rides

Red Cross Week

Golf tournament in Scotland

Are you ready to be one in a million for this years Red Cross Week? There are millions of ways to get involved and every penny counts. Find tips, inspiration and events at redcross.org.uk/redcrossweek

Swing for success at the Red Cross charity golf tournament at the Southerness Golf Club in Dumfriesshire on Sunday 24 June. Entrance, including lunch, costs 180 per team of four. Contact Gemma Carroll on 0141 891 4000 or gcarroll@redcross.org.uk

Hop on your bike for the Red Cross and join one of several fantastic fundraising cycling events. These include Nightrider in London (9 June), UK coast to coast cycle ride (9-12 August) and a mountain bike challenge in North Yorkshire (7 October). Find out more at redcross.org.uk/bikerides or contact challenges@redcross.org.uk Do you want Red Cross Life readers to take part in an event or promotion? Email editor@redcross.org.uk by 7 June

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