Letter: 2017 was a tough year, but the power of kindness shone through

Dear Editor, 

On behalf of the British Red Cross in the North, we’d like to take this opportunity to thank our incredible volunteers across the region, who have once again risen to the challenges 2017 has thrown our way.

Unfortunately the last 12 months have seen a succession of emergencies across the UK including terror attacks, floods and a devastating fire. No matter what the incident, volunteers across the country have been willing to drop everything and offer help.

Here in Greater Manchester, our emergency response and other volunteers provided support following the Manchester Arena attacks, working in partnership with the We Love Manchester Emergency Fund, local authorities and the emergency services.

2017 may have been an unforgettable year for all the wrong reasons, but the enduring spirit and the power of kindness across Greater Manchester and the wider country will be its lasting legacy. We are indebted to our volunteers, but we are also actively looking for more. We have launched Community Reserve Volunteers – an easy way to volunteer in your community when a crisis hits. It’s something everyone can do to make their community stronger, it only takes ten minutes to sign up, and you’d only be called on in a big local emergency. Find out more at www.redcross.org.uk/reserves.

Next year will undoubtedly bring a host of new challenges in Greater Manchester, across the UK and overseas, but thanks to donations from the general public and the dedication of our volunteers, millions of people facing crisis will continue to be helped by the British Red Cross.

Thank you.

Yours,

John Morris
Director of Independent Living and Crisis Response
British Red Cross in the North

The views expressed are those of the author of the letter and not those of Oldham Chronicle.