THIS IS Red Cross week and volunteers are working hard in Darlington to help raise money towards a one million pound nationwide target.

As a humanitarian organisation The British Red Cross aims to help people in crisis no matter where or who they are. This is at home or abroad. The intent is to prepare others to face crises in their communities and to help them cope. When the crisis is done with, they can move on. Many volunteers come out to help.

Mrs. Margaret Grey, shaking a bucket today at Morrisons, Morton Park, Darlington, said: “I have put my heart into the Red Cross. It’s a way of giving back to the community. I think by helping others you help yourself as well. I have met so many lovely people while fundraising. I really enjoy it. Of course people still associate us with out first aid work and this is important but we do so much more.”

Here in Darlington, for example, a prevention and supported hospital discharge scheme runs. This means that the Red Cross is able to give short term support to vulnerable people so that they can meet the challenge of a health or social care crisis. They work in partnership with Darlington Borough Council and NHS Trust, to enable individuals to live in their home. Help can be provided prior to a hospital admission, in preparation for a return home, and following discharge.

For more information about this contact HSCNorthEast_Cumbria@redcross.org.uk or call 07921872416.

Mrs. Grey said: “To me, actions speak louder than words. It is the giving of time as a volunteer that makes such a big difference to people’s lives, and it may well be a small amount of time that is contributed but it all adds up. You see, it’s nice to be important, but it’s much more important to be nice! Time spent helping others is never wasted. The Red Cross week ends on Saturday 12th May but donations are appreciated anytime. The Durham British Red Cross number is 0191 3841360. Or email: http://www.redcross.org.uk/