Voluntary sector partners in preparing for an emergency
Voluntary sector organisations work with the emergency services and other responders to help prepare for and help in an emergency. Here you’ll find information on some of the support functions they provide, and information on how to volunteer.
Welfare and medical support
Learning first aid skills and knowing what to do when someone is injured is an important part of responding to an emergency and could help save lives.
The British Red Cross
The British Red Cross (BRC) is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. It works to provide relief to people in crises and respond to emergencies in support of the emergency services and other statutory authorities. BRC volunteers provide practical help and emotional support to victims. In addition, the BRC is a major provider of first aid training.
St John Ambulance
St John Ambulance is a first aid, transport and care charity. It provides first aid and medical support services, caring services in support of community needs and education, training and personal development to young people.
Social and psychological aftercare
An emergency can have psychological effects on people long after the crisis is over. If you or someone you know has been involved in an incident, there are many organisations that can offer support and counselling, or you could help others by volunteering with one of these organisations.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is not primarily an emergency disaster relief organisation. However, it frequently provides support at the point of greatest need during the emergency period of a disaster. The Salvation Army provides a range of psychological support and counselling services to the homeless, elderly and other vulnerable groups, including those affected by emergencies.
Cruse Bereavement Care
Cruse Bereavement Care works to promote the well-being of bereaved people and to enable anyone bereaved by death to understand their grief and cope with their loss. The organisation provides counselling and support. It offers information, advice, education and training services.
Samaritans Victim Support
Samaritans Victim Support is an independent charity which helps people cope with the effects of crime. It provides free and confidential support and information.
Search and rescue
Search and rescue (SAR) teams provide specialist support to people in danger. They are trained to respond quickly and work in adverse conditions to save lives and reduce the number of casualties following an emergency.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is a charity that provides a 24-hour lifesaving service around the UK and Republic of Ireland. The RNLI volunteer crews include a rapid response unit which provides support in emergencies.
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