As the full impact of Hurricane Melissa becomes clearer, the United Kingdom has announced a significant ramp-up in its emergency response across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. An additional £5 million has now been committed, bringing the UK’s total humanitarian support to £7.5 million.
This expanded aid package will boost the deployment of essential supplies such as shelter kits and solar-powered lanterns—over 3,000 and 1,500 units respectively—critical for families without safe housing or electricity. The support also includes sanitation items and logistical assistance to help affected communities recover and restore basic living conditions.
Working closely with trusted humanitarian partners—including the Red Cross, World Food Programme, and UN agencies—the UK has mobilized personnel and resources to fast-track the delivery of aid. A rapid response team has already touched down in Jamaica, providing both technical assistance and consular support to British nationals impacted by the disaster.
The UK’s funding includes a match of up to £1 million for public donations to the Red Cross appeal, reflecting a broader commitment to global solidarity. Relief goods that were strategically prepositioned in Antigua & Barbuda are now being moved to severely affected zones, demonstrating foresight in regional disaster preparedness.
Officials are also engaging directly with travel companies and tour operators to support stranded travellers and restore airlift capacity. Contingency flights are being arranged for British nationals unable to leave through commercial means.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper noted the growing reports of destruction and displacement across the island, stating, “We’re acting swiftly to ensure that aid reaches the communities who are suffering most.”
British High Commissioner Alicia Herbert reiterated the UK’s solidarity with Jamaica: “We are seeing a nation already mobilising to rebuild. This funding allows us to stand with Jamaica, not just in crisis but in recovery.”
Through collaborations with CDEMA, regional governments, and financial protection institutions like the London Centre for Disaster Protection, the UK is also supporting Jamaica’s long-term resilience—with mechanisms already in place to streamline future disaster responses.
In the face of widespread hardship, the message from the UK is resolute: Jamaica will not face this alone.
