Following the devastating series of earthquakes that hit southern Turkey and north-west Syria, killing and injuring thousands of people and destroying or damaging thousands of buildings, the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) has launched a new appeal to support its work aiding survivors.

DEC charities and their local partners are among the first responders on the ground, working with locally-led relief efforts. Their immediate focus has been on saving lives and helping people who have been injured or lost their homes by providing medical care, temporary shelter and blankets.

As thousands of people have been left without shelter in freezing winter conditions, and humanitarian needs are expected to grow in the coming days, Martin Whitfield MSP is urging people to consider donating to the DEC appeal to support their work helping people in their time of need.

Commenting on the humanitarian crisis and the DEC Appeal, Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“We have all seen on the news over the last few days the devastating impact these earthquakes have had in Turkey and Syria. Thousands of lives have been lost and many more have been injured or left homeless.

“Survivors are struggling to access essentials like food and shelter, while the availability of clean water is also likely to become a challenge, bringing the risk of cholera and other diseases.

DEC charities and their local partners are in the affected areas, working with locally-led relief efforts to help save lives and support those who have been injured or lost their homes. However, the scale of the need is huge, and people need help now.

“That is why the newly launched DEC Appeal is urging people to donate cash, if they can, to support DEC charities’ life-saving work on the ground in Turkey and Syria.”

Donations can be made by using the following mechanisms:

  • Online: www.dec.org.uk.
  • Phone: 0370 60 60 610
  • Text to give/SMS: text SUPPORT to 70787 to donate £10.
  • Donate over the counter at any high street bank or post office or send a cheque by post to Post: DEC Turkey-Syria Earthquake Appeal, PO Box 999, London EC3A 3AA.