Psychosocial supportwithin a global movement

Events such as the Haiti earthquake
or crises nearer home, such as
floods and fires, may lead us to
wonder about what we can do to
help. As funds are raised and food,
shelter and water are distributed,
is there a place for psychology?
This article explores how
psychology can make a meaningful
contribution, but only when it is
embedded in coordinated
responses that are informed by
and tailored to the social context.
Beginning with an exploration of
the current and historical context
of both psychosocial support within
the humanitarian sector, and the
origins of the British Red Cross,
the article includes examples of the
way psychology informs the British
Red Cross psychosocial framework
and its application within first aid
and the work of the British Red
Cross in the UK and internationally.