Ukraine - A message from the HCA to our members
Members have shared with us their shock and devastation to see the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
The HCA would not usually provide a statement on geopolitical events however, the invasion of Ukraine is a clear assault on democracy, an attack on humanity, with an appalling human cost. We, of course, stand beside Ukraine and our thoughts are with its people during these terrible times.
Clearly, what is needed is more than just statements, and we also feel this is very much a time for coming together. There have been some excellent initiatives that have already been set up to practically help the people of Ukraine. Rather than generate something specific from the HCA, we think it would be more impactful to encourage our members to be proactive in their response and support these initiatives.
The humanitarian impact is clearly going to need long term support, so whatever has been done to date will only be a small fraction of what is going to be needed. There are many ways our members can provide support, but we draw your intention to the possible options below. We encourage our members, as organisations or individuals, to do as much as they can to engage and support these fantastic initiatives over the coming weeks, months and, sadly, probably years; to show our sector’s solidarity and collective will to support the people of Ukraine. And please use social media to share what you do to hopefully encourage others to follow your example. #HealthCommsStandWithUkraine
At this time of great political uncertainty, it is important we all come together and do the right thing in terms of humanitarian support and in considering the people and organisations that we do business with.
We hope peace will prevail quickly.
Humanitarian aid organisations
DEC: Disasters Emergency Committee dec.org.uk
For UK based members the DEC brings together 15 leading UK aid charities. Donations go to member charities and local partners responding in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.
Ukrainian Red Cross redcross.org.ua
Undertaking humanitarian work in Ukraine from aiding refugees, mobilisation of volunteers and resources, blood collection and other emergency activities.
Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières) msf.org
A highly regarded international, independent, and impartial organisation providing medical humanitarian assistance to people affected by war. Emergency teams active along borders to support those fleeing the war.
Supporting information dissemination and combating fake news
PRCA
The PRCA has been bringing together PR professionals to support Ukrainian ministries in getting verified information across media platforms. To get involved, contact @PRCA_HQ A verified media kit has been produced and is updated with the main messages about the situation in Ukraine and support sources here
Support local Ukrainian journalism
Local journalism is clearly vital at this time. You can donate to The Kyiv Independent via GoFundMe or the Ukraine Crisis Media Centre or provide support via the International Press Institute
Supporting war refugees needing to seek asylum
Asylum Aid asylumaid.org.uk
Delivering high quality legal representation to the most vulnerable people seeking asylum in the UK; children and stateless people
Please use the links below to view what actions the pharmaceutical sector is taking
Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry: Link
European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations: Link