In Lviv, the Western Interregional Office of the Ukrainian Red Cross hosted a visit from Mark Richard, delegate of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent for Public Engagement and Reporting in Europe

The purpose of the visit was to learn about the work of the Ukrainian Red Cross Information Centre and discuss areas of partnership and cooperation.

“I am here to see with my own eyes how the Information Centre operates, to build bridges of cooperation, to listen to suggestions and comments, and to understand how the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent can be useful in establishing the work,” Mark Richard summarised the purpose of his visit.

As part of the visit, Volodymyr Havryliuk, Head of the URCS Western Interregional Office, and Mariia Nazarko, Head of the Information Centre (hotline), provided an overview of the Information Centre’s work and explained the specifics of the interaction between the hotline staff and those seeking information support.

“We have a very intensive work schedule; we receive information about the needs of people in difficult circumstances and seek ways to assist them. On average, the hotline handles about 300-500 calls daily, including approximately 200-300 requests from veterans and their families in cooperation with the Ministry of Veterans,” said Mariia Nazarko.

It is worth noting that the Ukrainian Red Cross hotline is free of charge and operates daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you or your family members need assistance, please call 0 800 332 656.