News and Media Relations Officer Joe Stafford was so moved by the harrowing images and stories coming from the conflict that he decided he had to do something to help. He is raising money for UK-Med, a charity based at the University which provides healthcare assistance during crises around the world.

From their current base in Lviv, UK-Med’s expert medical team is visiting hospitals and shelters to understand the critical health needs caused by the conflict, and working to provide support quickly to affected communities. They hope to raise enough money to fund the provision of a World Health Organisation approved health facility to provide emergency care to over 100 people a day.

Joe will be cycling the Ronde van Nederland route, which broadly follows the coastlines and borders around The Netherlands. Along the way, he plans to speak to the media, meet other people helping Ukrainian refugees and raise the profile of UK-Med’s work.

“I have Ukrainian colleagues and acquaintances, and what they are going through is unimaginable – their friends and families are either sheltering from Russian missiles, or have fled the country leaving their whole lives behind,” said Joe. “I felt helpless looking on from afar, so I simply had to do something to help in my own small way. I thought a challenge like this would be a good way for me to channel my emotions into something positive.”

To donate, please visit www.cycle4ukraine.com, where Joe will also post updates about his journey. For more information about the work UK-Med is doing in Ukraine, visit their Facebook page.