Our history

British Red Cross history from the start of the Red Cross Movement to today

We have always been quick to act when needed and simple acts of kindness are threaded throughout our history.

black and white portrait of Henry Dunant

The beginning of the Red Cross

Our history starts with Swiss businessman Henry Dunant’s compassion for people fighting on both sides of a war.

Find out about the creation of the Red Cross
red cross emblem on flag historical item

Museum and archives

Information about our collections, which contain a fascinating portrait of our humanitarian work.

Find out about our collections
First World War Volunteers

The First World War

Discover what Red Cross volunteers were doing in the First World War. Search our Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) database.

Explore the database
black and white photo of Red Cross medics during the Blitz

The Second World War

We worked at home and abroad to help the sick and wounded, prisoners of war and civilians needing relief.

Read about our work during the Second World War

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