A team of British Red Cross logistics and assessment experts flew to Islamabad, Pakistan, on 10 October to help tens of thousands of people who have been affected by the earthquake that devastated areas of Pakistan and India on 8 October.
The logistics Emergency Response Unit will be part of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) relief team in Kashmir, coordinating the distribution of Red Cross relief items like sheets, hygiene sets, tents and kitchen kits. The team will ensure these supplies get to those most in need as quickly as possible.
Team leader Justin Cuckow said: "Our main function will be to receive and forward on all the relief items to those most in need. It's difficult to know what to expect and we will undoubtedly face challenges but it is vital that we transport emergency items to people in need as fast as possible."
The British Red Cross is also sending a team of two people as part of a Field Assessment Coordination Team (FACT) to work with Red Cross and Red Crescent societies and other charities in assessing need and coordinating the aid effort.
The British Red Cross has launched an urgent appeal for money to support the immediate relief efforts. As many as 20,000 people are feared dead and some 40,000 were injured by the quake, which measured 7.6 on the Richter scale
Supporters can donate to the Asia Earthquake Appeal online, by calling 0845 053 5353, or sending a cheque to: British Red Cross Asian Earthquake Appeal, Freepost, LON18968, Sheffield, S98 1ZA.