Statement on earthquakes in Türkiye (Turkey) and Syria
Our deepest sympathies and condolences are extended to everyone who has been affected by the recent earthquakes on the Turkish – Syrian border.
The natural disaster has led to thousands of casualties, with the numbers still rising, alongside thousands more who are injured and those who are left without a home.
People in the affected areas, and globally, will be mourning the loss of families, friends, and loved ones. Students at Bristol may also be grieving, so please show compassion to those around you at this difficult time.
If you've been affected by the earthquake, there is support at the University of Bristol for those who need it. The Wellbeing Access team are available Monday – Friday, 9 am-8 pm. You can contact the team here, via their 'Request Wellbeing Support' webpage.
How can I help?
The University of Bristol Turkish Society are hosting some fundraising events over the coming days that you can support. More information can be found on their Instagram account. These are the events they will be hosting:
- Bake Goods to fundraise for Turkey and Syria – Monday 13 February | 18:00-21:00 | Multifaith Chaplaincy
- Fundraising for Turkey and Syria: Bake Sale, Collecting Goods, Bucketing – Tuesday 14 February | 10:00-17:00 | Outside Senate House
The Global Lounge will be hosting a pop-up Tea and Chat for anyone affected by the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. This will take place on 14 February, 12:00-13:30, in Senate House. Members of the Student Wellbeing team, HR International Advisers, and staff from the Student Inclusion team will be available to talk, or just listen.
A number of charitable appeals have also been set up if you would like to donate to organisations that are currently providing humanitarian support in Ukraine:
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The British Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal to help provide emergency first aid and evacuate people to safety.
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The International Rescue Committee is providing urgent supplies and emergency shelters for people affected, as well as supporting essential health services.
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Oxfam is working with partner organisations to assess the immediate and long-term support required. The emergency response is expected to include water and sanitation, shelter, and food support as well as longer-term rehabilitation and reconstruction.
