At The University of Manchester, we understand that global events and natural disasters can have a profound impact on members of our community.
We recognise that the evolving coverage surrounding the earthquake in Turkey and Syria will likely be unsettling and potentially deeply upsetting for some. For those who may have been directly impacted by the devastating news, or have friends or family that have been affected, our thoughts go out to you.
Please remember that we are here to support you, at all times.
If you feel the situation is affecting your mental health and wellbeing, you can reach out to a range of services (including some that are available 24/7) through the Student Support website and the Students’ Union Advice Centre.
Should you be worried about any impact on your studies, we have our mitigating circumstances procedure for taught students and support for changes of circumstances for postgraduate researchers.
Please reach out to speak to your Academic Advisor/Supervisor or one of our services at any time if you need support. Further sources of support and information are also available on our conflict and humanitarian disaster website, which includes information on fundraising appeals.
How you can help
Earthquake relief campaign at the Students’ Union
The UoM Turkish & Northern Cypriot Society have organised a relief campaign to support the victims of the recent earthquakes, led by the North Western Turkish Community Association. They will be continuing to collect donations of clothes, blankets and other goods on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th February outside the SU building.
The main supplies that are high in demand are: Winter clothes, blankets, tents, hygienic pads, shoes, socks, sanitary products, empty boxes, heaters (pocket heater, portable heating), canned food, snacks, sleeping bags etc.
They’ve also organised a GoFundMe fundraiser for anyone who wishes to donate.
UK-Med appeal
You may wish to donate towards the UK-Med Turkey-Syria appeal. UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity based at the University. In 2020 they worked in 13 countries, responding to calls for emergency medical assistance following crises like disease outbreaks, natural disasters and conflict.