British Red Cross volunteers from Berkshire are supporting residents at a rest centre in Chelsea following a major fire at Grenfell tower block in north Kensington, London.

Two volunteers from Reading have joined colleagues from across London and the South East to provide practical and emotional support to local residents affected by the terrible incident. Another four volunteers from Berkshire are currently on their way to London to offer ongoing assistance.

Corinne Rowe, a part-time supply teacher from Reading, was alerted to the incident early this morning. She arrived in Chelsea at 9.30am to join a team of Red Cross emergency response volunteers.

Corinne explained: “The Red Cross are working with the local authority to make sure that any one affected by this terrible incident is supported. We have been helping to distribute food and water, and have been making sure people have access to any medications they need. We have also been providing general support to people who want to talk about what’s happened, offering a listening ear and comfort.

“The atmosphere here in the rest centre is now amazingly calm. The community is rallying round, with residents collecting food, drink and clothes, and everyone is asking each other how they can help. There is a good, strong community spirit.”

Approximately 250 people have been supported at the rest centre so far. Additional Red Cross volunteers from Berkshire are on standby in case there is a need for ongoing support.

Hannah Woodley, senior emergency response officer for the Red Cross in Reading, said: “Responding to emergencies is at the heart of what the British Red Cross does here in the UK. All our volunteers are trained to provide practical and emotional support and we will continue to offer that support for as long as we’re needed.”

Anyone concerned about loved ones following the fire in Grenfell Tower should contact the Casualty Bureau on 0800 0961 233 or 0207 158 0197.

More people are needed to become emergency response volunteers with the Red Cross. For anyone interested in the role, please email S&CIER@redcross.org.uk or call 07921 872429.

For more information about the Red Cross visit redcross.org.uk