Turkey-Syria earthquake: solidarity with those affected

The whole community of the University of Reading sends its thoughts and condolences to the people of Turkey and Syria following the severe earthquakes that hit the region on Monday (6 February), with thousands of people reported to have died and millions affected.

Many colleagues and students have links with family and friends in the affected regions, and those people are particularly in the thoughts of their University colleagues.

Support for staff

Any colleagues who are affected by the events can find wellbeing support resources, including the Employee Assistance Programme, on the Health and Wellbeing webpages.

Staff who have contact with students who may be affected by the earthquake, who may be struggling with any emotional, academic or practical impacts, should direct students to support of the Student Welfare team, who are prepared to respond to the needs of students.

UK Government advice is that anyone in the UK concerned about relatives or friends should call the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on 020 7008 5000. The FCDO has also updated their travel advice webpages for Turkey and for Syria.

Fundraising appeals

In addition, some colleagues have been asking for practical ways to support people in the region who are affected. Many fundraising appeals have been launched in the aftermath of the disaster. A selection of those appealing for donations are:

• British Red Cross
• Oxfam
• Turkey Disaster and Management Authority - AFAD
• Türk Kızılay
• Syrian American Medical Society
• Islamic Relief
• UNICEF
• The White Helmets
• Save the Children