RCR statement on the conflict in Ukraine

Wednesday 13 April 2022

We understand that our Fellows and members continue to be concerned about the Ukraine crisis and how many have been personally affected. We are also deeply concerned by reports from Ukraine describing attacks on hospitals and healthcare workers.

Our thoughts are with all colleagues working in healthcare in Ukraine, who are treating patients while working in such dangerous and difficult conditions. We’re also encouraged by the great support being given by neighbouring counties, who have taken in many refugees and are caring for them.

If you are finding things challenging at this time, it’s important to know that there is support available. Please talk to your line manager or take a look at these online resources from the NHS.

The RCR fully supports doctors in Ukraine coming over to the UK should they wish to do so. However, it is important to understand that there are General Medical Council (GMC) rules which need to be adhered to for doctors who want to be registered in the UK. For more information, please read the statement from the GMC.

Ways to donate and support

Many of us will want to help support those in Ukraine and it’s important that we ‘give safely’ to registered charities:

Those who can are invited to donate money to The Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal.

You can also donate to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, which brings together 15 leading UK aid charities to raise funds quickly and efficiently at times of crisis overseas.

UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity raising money for their Ukraine appeal. Donations go toward their teams on the ground who are providing direct medical care, training and support for the people of Ukraine.

A national effort is underway to provide support to Ukraine and to ensure that the NHS stands ready to provide further support as needed. NHS England has advised that in order to coordinate this help and to avoid creating disruption or duplication, offers of assistance within England from NHS organisations should be sent to: England.incident14@nhs.net.