Brits in need get new access to Red Cross support
Nationwide cooperation agreement signed with British Embassy
British Ambassador Simon Manley (right) signs agreement with Spanish Red Cross national vice president Javier Gimeno (centre).
British people living in Spain will have easier access to the services and support of the Red Cross thanks to a nationwide cooperation agreement signed by the British Ambassador, Simon Manley, and the national vice president of the Spanish Red Cross, Javier Gimeno.
The new agreement aims to improve the quality of life for the most vulnerable expatriates, and their ability to access Red Cross services. It also seeks to encourage people in the British community to volunteer for Red Cross activities and promote collaboration with other British community associations.
The partnership, which was signed on Monday 21 September at the headquarters of the Red Cross, will be piloted in the province of Alicante, which has a large British community. The aim is then to extend it nationwide, enabling British communities across Spain to access Red Cross services and become involved in their projects.
Simon Manley said:
People in the British communities have a wealth of experience and skills, and I really hope that this new partnership with the Red Cross will encourage more people to volunteer their talents and support for the benefit of others.
The agreement will also help to ensure that British expats in the Alicante region have easier access to the wide range of Red Cross resources, which can improve their quality of life.
Javier Gimeno added:
We have identified a large number of British people in our province who, because of their age and health, may require Red Cross services such as adapted transport, accompaniment and home telecare. Our aims are to inspire members of the British community to volunteer for the Red Cross and to encourage those who require assistance to take advantage of our services.
Pamela Twissel-Cross, welfare officer for the Royal British Legion, who attended the signing, commented:
I’m really looking forward to working more closely with the Red Cross as it will give me a chance to help British nationals get additional support.
It will also be a chance to learn and find out more about what is available so that together we can support the most vulnerable.
The signing ceremony was attended by representatives of a large number of English language associations in the province of Alicante including: Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur, the Royal British Legion, the Samaritans, the Royal Airforce Association, Help at Home, International Residents Daya Nueva, AFA Torrevieja, MABS Cancer Support, Help at Home Mar Menor, and the HELP groups in Denia, Benidorm, Jalón Valley, Vega Baja and Mar Menor.