About us
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.
Our history starts with Swiss businessman Henry Dunant’s compassion for people fighting on both sides of a war.
Information about our collections, which contain a fascinating portrait of our humanitarian work.
From smallpox to Covid-19, we've been supporting global vaccination programmes since they started in 1888.
Showcasing stories of people who have helped shape our history, now and from across the years.
Browse photos and stories and search for your family's personnel cards to discover what 90,000 Red Cross volunteers did during the war.
We worked at home and abroad to help the sick and wounded, prisoners of war and civilians needing relief.
Explore our museum and open archives collections on our online database.
From hero dogs and Christmas parties, to the royal family and landmines, our stories paint a vivid picture of the past.
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