Statement: Winter Red Cross support

How the British Red Cross is supporting people and the NHS this winter

Norman McKinley, British Red Cross executive director of UK operations said:

“Since the pandemic began British Red Cross has undertaken a huge response, reaching over 1.5 million people with food, medicines, emotional support, transport to and from hospital and other help and advice.

“Winter is always a busy time for healthcare services but this winter is like no other. Red Cross volunteers and staff have already given over 100,000 hours of support to the NHS, keeping people safe at home, freeing up beds in hospitals and helping out at flu vaccination centres. 

“We are gearing up to expand that support over the winter, including working alongside others to play a role in supporting people as the NHS rolls out its Covid-19 vaccination programme in Wales and at some GP surgeries in England. 

“In this and all our work we’re giving special focus to helping people for whom the virus has made existing problems even harder to bear. This winter, our work to help those most in need is more vital than ever.”