A time for compassion

Our CEO, Sara Munro, reflects on the crisis in the Middle East

We have all no doubt seen reports of the terrible events taking place in Israel and Palestine. It is a truly shocking and tragic state of affairs, one that is bound to deeply impact on our emotions and wellbeing. As a Trust with a truly international and diverse workforce, we are very conscious of the fact that some colleagues will feel that impact more than others. The scenes we are witnessing on news reports and social media will be deeply disturbing for anyone with connections to people on both sides of the conflict, and our hearts go out to all that are suffering. As a provider of front-line services we should also be conscious that our service users and their local communities will also be affected, so I would urge those providing direct patient care to please be mindful of the impact on those we support.

I’m mindful that next week is National Hate Crime Awareness Week,  and cannot help but feel that now is the time to put our arms around people who may need our care and attention. The Trust has a number of support services in place that are there to assist colleagues when things become emotionally overwhelming in difficult situations. If you are affected  by the current situation in the Middle East and need to talk to someone, then please do email our Wellbeing Team so we can offer the care and support you need.

If you feel you want to reach out and support those suffering as result of the conflict, you can do so via the following charities which have been endorsed by Charity Watch.

Anera, which has no political or religious affiliation, works on the ground with partners in Palestine mobilizing immediate emergency relief.  Anera has already delivered 12,000 bags of IV solutions to Gaza’s largest hospital. In the coming days they will distribute food parcels, water, and hygiene kits to displaced families.

Direct Relief has committed funds to the Ashkelon Foundation, a nonprofit located in southern Israel. The foundation supports the Barzilai Medical Center which received approximately 300 patients the first day of the attack. Direct Relief is also working with other health-focused nonprofits in Israel to assess the need for additional aid.

Doctors Without Borders/MSF is donating medical supplies to hospitals and health facilities in Gaza to respond to medical needs. MSF does not run medical programs in Israel, which has strong emergency and health services.

The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee has activated their emergency response team and protocols across Israel. In the south of the country, they have widespread, existing operations and programs providing support to those directly impacted by the conflict, including elderly, people with disabilities, children and families at risk.