Three years on: Red Cross supports families separated by conflict in Ukraine

As the devastating conflict in Ukraine enters its fourth year, the level of humanitarian need remains staggeringly high. The conflict has affected millions of people, torn families apart and devastated vital infrastructure and homes.  

The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement has continued to be there for those that need us, supporting over 22 million people with vital humanitarian support. Over the past three years, 186,000 Red Cross volunteers have helped 4.6 million people with cash assistance, provided healthcare to 1.4 million people, mental health support to over a million people and supported over a million people with shelter. 

Red Cross teams are also there to support the families that have been torn apart in the conflict. The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) has received over 118,000 enquiries from people searching for their loved ones. Almost 14,000 open cases remain with each case representing individuals and families who are living with uncertainty, pain, and fear.  A specialist family tracing programme helps these families and supports them while they live through the unimaginable.  

During this complicated process which can span over many years, Red Cross and Red Crescent teams are a key source of emotional and practical support. They provide cash assistance and other services, ranging from art therapy sessions to visits to the zoo for children. This support provides a sense of some normality, and a chance to find strength and hope through shared experiences. 

Béatrice Butsana-Sita, Chief Executive Officer, British Red Cross:

“The level of humanitarian need in Ukraine is still incredibly high. People have been killed, homes have been destroyed, and families have been torn apart. Since the first moments, the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement has been there providing urgent aid, such as food, water, shelter and medical care. We are also providing long-term support like cash and psychosocial support, so that families who’ve lost everything can start to rebuild their lives.   

“The Restoring Family Links service is just one part of our humanitarian response in Ukraine. It provides practical support in reconnecting families and guidance to help people navigate the unknown. Specialists and volunteers work across Ukraine responding to requests, offering psychological support, and organising activities to help families regain a sense of security and normality. 

“Red Cross and Red Crescent teams will continue to be there for as long as we are needed in the weeks, months and years ahead.” 

Maksym Dotsenko, Director General, Ukrainian Red Cross Society:  

“Three years of conflict have changed many lives, but for those who have lost contact with their loved ones, the uncertainty does not disappear. We are always there, supporting those who are going through this pain, and giving them the opportunity to feel that they are not alone. Our mission is to be here as long as we are needed.”  

Anastasia described what it was like to attend a weeklong getaway provided by the Ukrainian Red Cross Society:  

“When I contacted the Ukrainian Red Cross Society, they guided me where else I could turn, provided contacts, phone numbers and we received humanitarian aid. There was psychosocial support.”  

“We also went to a camp with my older son, had a rest, we really liked it. Despite the circumstances, kids stay kids. 

“With the help of the Ukrainian Red Cross, we managed to get away, change surroundings and we accumulated positive emotions.” 

ENDS

Notes to editors

Since March 2022, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement response to the conflict in Ukraine has: 

• provided over 22,400,000 people with basic assistance in Ukraine and wider region
• helped 4,600,000 people with cash assistance
• provided healthcare services to almost 1,500,000 people
• helped 1,100,000 people with shelter support
• trained over half a million people in Ukraine in first aid
• supported over one million people in Ukraine with mental health support.

Find out more about the Red Cross and Red Crescent International Family Tracing.

About the British Red Cross

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders.

Ukraine Crisis Appeal

The British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis appeal supports people in areas affected and those potentially affected in the future by this crisis.