Following the powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake and aftershocks that have devastated huge areas of Myanmar, the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) charities have today launched an appeal to help those affected.

Martin Whitfield MSP is joining cross-party colleagues to help promote the DEC appeal and encourage constituents to support it if they can. The Scottish and UK governments are both backing the appeal.

Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“Myanmar was already facing a severe humanitarian crisis with a third of the population in need of aid, but the impact of the earthquake has been catastrophic.

“Hundreds of people are still missing and the death toll continues to rise. Many more have no access to the essentials they need to survive. Infrastructure, roads and buildings across the region have been destroyed, while vital services and medical facilities are overwhelmed. 

“The Disasters Emergency Committee charities need the public’s backing to help them rapidly scale up their response and reach many more families affected by this disaster. Whatever you can give, please donate today.”

Donations to the appeal can be made online at www.dec.org.uk.