The United Kingdom has announced a £2.5 million emergency funding package to aid recovery efforts in the Caribbean following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa. The British High Commission in Jamaica confirmed the allocation on Wednesday, emphasizing its role in facilitating a swift humanitarian response. The funds will be utilized to distribute essential supplies, including shelter kits, water filters, and blankets, aimed at mitigating injuries and preventing disease outbreaks. These resources have been strategically pre-positioned in Antigua for rapid deployment to the most affected areas. Additionally, the UK is deploying humanitarian and technical experts to assist with coordination and aid delivery. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the UK’s commitment to supporting Jamaican authorities in disaster relief efforts, with specialist teams already stationed in the region to provide consular assistance to affected British nationals. British High Commissioner to Jamaica Alicia Herbert expressed solidarity with the Jamaican people, praising their resilience and pledging continued support during the recovery process. The Royal Navy ship HMS Trent is also on standby in the region to offer maritime disaster response, while a pre-deployed Ministry of Defence team in the Turks and Caicos Islands is aiding in disaster management. A Rapid Deployment Team from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has been dispatched to Miami to provide consular support to British nationals. The UK is collaborating with tour operators, Jamaican authorities, and international partners, including the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency and the Red Cross, to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches the most vulnerable populations.
