You do not need to travel the world to find people in need of our help.

We might not always realise it, but right here in the UK, in our local communities, there are people in crisis with no one to turn to.

The British Red Cross is best known for helping millions of people around the world when disaster strikes. But last year the charity supported almost 705,000 in the UK alone.

Whether its supporting people home from hospital, tackling loneliness, preparing communities for extreme weather, reuniting families separated by war, or teaching people first aid skills that save lives – the Red Cross is always there.

Having seen their volunteers in action, I can tell you first-hand that the difference they make is extraordinary. There is no limit to the power of human kindness and every day, no matter what happens, their volunteers are changing people’s lives for the better.

But it’s only through the support of people like you that the British Red Cross can continue doing this vital work. That’s why I’m calling on everyone across Essex and London to do one kind thing this Red Cross Week in May, and help raise funds to continue changing and saving lives.

Even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference to those in need.

Make a donation online at www.redcross.org.uk/redcrossweek

Ben Fogle,

British Red Cross Ambassador