Red Cross launches emergency appeal to help victims of London Bridge attack

The British Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal to help the victims of the London Bridge attacks.

The UK Solidarity Fund will support people who have been injured, bereaved or traumatised.

The charity, supported by Mayor Sadiq Khan, is refocusing attention on the capital from its We Love Manchester appeal which has raised more than £10 million so far.

In the immediate aftermath of Saturday night’s attack, generous Londoners offered beds for the night, lifts home and safe places away from the chaos on the capital’s streets.

Social media hashtags #sofaforlondon and #staysafelondon began trending with offers of shelter, while black cab drivers and minicabs gave passengers free rides home from the area.

Mike Adamson, chief executive of the British Red Cross, said: “The events in these two great British cities in the last two weeks are shocking and horrifying.

"Our thoughts are with all of those affected at this terribly difficult time. The new UK Solidarity Fund will support victims of the attacks and their families, and provide a way for people to donate to help those affected in their time of need.

"It will also help us to stand prepared to swiftly provide support in the event of future incidents.”

Donations, which can be made by phone, web, post or text, will help families of the victims of the London attacks avoid short-term financial difficulties.

Funds will be distributed by the Red Cross working with the London Emergency Trust, which handled £12 million donations after the 7/7 bombings in the capital in 2005, and London authorities.

Gerald Oppenheim, head of the Emergency Trust, said it would make “an enormous difference”.

Donate to the fund here