Tuesday 07-02-2023 - 13:17

Laura Curran: Message of solidarity and condolence after the earthquake in Türkiye and Syria

To everyone affected by the Kahramanmaras earthquake, I want to extend to you my deepest sympathy and condolences. 

Overnight, people in Türkiye and Syria have been met with high magnitude earthquakes and aftershocks, reaching as high as 7.8 on the Richter scale. This has led to devastatingly high numbers of casualties, with even more people still missing, to the point where Türkiye has declared a fourth level alert state with international calls for help. Moreover, this is the most severe natural disaster people in Türkiye have faced in over a century. 

Thousands of people, in Türkiye, Syria, and worldwide, have since been mourning and grieving the loss of family, friends, and loved ones. This includes Turkish and Syrian students here at Durham. No one should ever have to experience such loss or devastation, and there is help and support available here at Durham if you need it. 

The Counselling and Mental Health Service is ran by trained and experienced practitioners who help students to manage any difficulties that are impacting upon university life and their studies. They are available all year round to registered students, and you can access the service here. 

Another option for support is your college Student Support staff. You can find their contact details by navigating the colleges webpage here. 

British Red Cross has launched an emergency earthquake appeal to help people affected by the earthquake and support rescue efforts. Any donation, no matter how big or small, can provide vital support.