Information for people affected by emergencies
We help people affected by overseas or UK-based emergencies.
When emergencies strike, we provide practical, local and emotional support to people around the UK. We can help families who are separated by war, disaster or migration.
Get help if you're affected by emergencies in:
Call us for help:
0808 196 3651
The British Red Cross support line is:
- free and offers emotional and practical support
- for anyone in the UK, including non-UK citizens like refugees and asylum seekers
- available in 200+ languages, just ask to speak to a translator
Our friendly team are here to get you the support you need:
10am to 5pm – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
10am to 8pm – Wednesday
Learn more and access PDFs translated into 14 languages on the support line page.
In an emergency call:
- Samaritans: if you need emotional support
Telephone: 116 123 (open 24 hours)
or send an email: jo@samaritans.org - NHS: if you’re feeling unwell
Telephone: 111 - Life threatening or medical emergency
Telephone: 999
Help outside the UK
For support outside of the UK, contact your nearest National Red Cross and Red Crescent Society.
If you are concerned about British nationals in an area affected by an emergency, please visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website (available in English only). You can also call them on +44 (0)20 7008 5000, selecting the option: ‘Consular services for British nationals’ to speak to their 24/7 Consular team.
Help for refugees and asylum seekers
Information about our refugee services is available in other languages.
We can help refugees and asylum seekers in the UK with:
- emergency help
- one-to-one support and casework
- special services for children and families
- family reunions
- food, small amounts of cash and toiletries
- how to get help from other organisations
- specialist services for young refugees and asylum seekers.
Emotional support resources:
(Only available in English)