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Tatler Asia
4 days ago
- General
- Tatler Asia
How to build an apocalypse-ready home: 5 essential design strategies for disaster resilience
Above Jackson, Wyoming in 'The Last of Us' is a self-sufficient commune years in the making, and resilient of disasters (Photo: HBO Max) Even more immediate is the climate catastrophe already happening and accelerating. With 2023 and 2024 recorded as the hottest years globally, Earth has crossed the 1.5 degree celsius warming threshold earlier than expected, with projections suggesting 2 degree celsius warming by century's end remains likely if current emission trends continue. Don't miss: Why is it important to build homes that withstand climate change? As climate stress intensifies, the risk of civil unrest is expected to rise in the most affected regions with economic inequality, political instability, resource scarcity, and social grievances serve as catalysts for such disruption. Recent years have witnessed increased protests and unrest globally, linked to economic pressures and environmental crises. While context-dependent, civil unrest represents a plausible consequence of worsening global crises. If you're prepared for a zombie plague, you're prepared for most natural disasters. - Max Brooks, author of 'The Zombie Survival Guide' and 'World War Z' - Though we cannot predict how, when, or if an apocalypse might occur, we can certainly prepare to withstand extreme, long-term disruptions to modern infrastructure–whether from natural disasters, war, societal collapse, or other worst-case scenarios. Read more: World Humanitarian Day: These inspiring organisations address the needs of vulnerable Asian communities Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is the foundation for self-sufficient living that incorporates technologies and design principles to guard against uncertain futures–one that many industries have already implemented, offering parallels we can draw upon. Through prudent planning, we can start laying the groundwork for modern apocalypse-ready homes that withstand an increasingly unpredictable world. Location strategy Above High-density cities may offer superior access to supplies but pose significant risks (Photo: Unsplash) Above Major urban centres experienced rapid virus transmission and supply shortages (Photo: Unsplash) While high-density cities offer superior access to supplies, they pose significant risks. This became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when major urban centres experienced rapid virus transmission and supply shortages due to population density, whilst rural and highland areas suffered fewer cases and less disruption. See also: Cover Story: Professor Dato' Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman weighs in on drug policy reform, higher education and overcoming challenges The World Bank notes that 'urban areas offer greater access to healthcare, supplies, and infrastructure, but higher population density increases vulnerability to contagion, social unrest, and supply chain disruptions.' According to the organisation, urban population expected to exceed 6.8 billion by 2050, these vulnerabilities will only intensify. Conversely, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) observes that 'rural and highland areas offer lower population density, greater food security through agriculture, and easier perimeter control, making them more resilient to crises.' Above A waterfront home built on stilts in Jakarta, Indonesia by K-Thengono Design Studio (Photo: Mario Wibowo) Location choice extends beyond urban versus rural considerations to encompass terrain and elevation factors. Selecting land above floodplain elevation and away from coastal areas proves vital for reducing flood and storm surge risks. This principle becomes especially critical as climate change increases extreme weather frequency. Don't miss: Home tour: A waterfront home in Jakarta built on stilts to mitigate land sinking Properties on or near unstable slopes present particular hazards, with landslide risks intensifying during monsoon seasons. However, traditional Southeast Asian architecture offers proven solutions for flood-prone zones. Raising homes on stilts or elevated platforms–as embodied in vernacular architecture across Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines–provides effective protection against seasonal floods and storm surges, representing centuries of refined wisdom in tropical resilience design. Resilient architecture Above The bahay kubo in the Philippines flourishes in tropical, often isolated environments () Drawing from both time-tested wisdom and contemporary innovation, the shift towards sustainably built homes represents a promising trajectory for structures designed to thrive amid climate change. Southeast Asian vernacular architecture provides invaluable insights for resilient, sustainable construction. Read more: How architect Andra Matin's unconventional designs are reshaping Indonesia's built environment Traditional homes such as the bahay kubo in the Philippines and rumah adat in Indonesia have evolved over centuries to flourish in tropical, often isolated environments. These structures incorporate flood resilience through elevated stilts and natural ventilation whilst utilising locally sourced materials–principles that remain remarkably relevant today. Above Brick is robust and low-maintenance, suitable for tropical climates (Photo: Lin Ho) Above Exposed concrete walls at Vista House by Hier Architects (Photo: Fabian Ong) Meanwhile, Tropical Brutalism–a fusion of raw concrete and tropical design principles–is gaining recognition for its durability and climate responsiveness. This approach features the exposed concrete, brick, and steel characteristic of traditional Brutalist structures, but adapts these robust, low-maintenance materials specifically for tropical climates prone to humidity, storms, and heat. See also: 7 stunning Brutalist homes redefining Southeast Asian architecture Concrete's thermal mass regulates indoor temperatures by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it at night, whilst simultaneously providing structural durability against natural disasters and security threats. Both concrete and brick offer the dual benefits of wide availability and weather resistance–crucial considerations for long-term resilience. Above IDCandy's project features vent blocks to facilitate airflow and provide privacy (Photo: The Space Storyteller) Above An open, light-filled home by Tangu Architecture allow cross-ventilation (Photo: Tang Hsiao Seak and Steven Ngu) Above A home designed by Futurground with generous overhangs (Photo: Ameen Deen) Above Distinctive brise-soleil louvres at Kemaris House by DRTAN LM Architect (Photo: Lin Ho) Furthermore, effective tropical design prioritises natural climate control through cross-ventilation, which reduces indoor temperatures naturally and minimises air conditioning requirements. Architectural elements such as overhangs and louvres provide essential shade whilst promoting airflow, creating comfortable interior environments without energy-intensive cooling systems. Don't miss: 15 best green homes in Malaysia Additionally, reinforcing windows and doors with steel bars or rebar mesh protects against both break-ins and debris impact during extreme weather events. In typhoon-prone regions, storm shutters serve as essential protection, shielding windows from flying debris whilst reducing structural damage. Self-sufficient energy and water Above When electricity grids fail, they trigger cascading failures across other critical infrastructure (Photo: Pexels) Power and water supplies rank among the first essential services to fail during large-scale disasters or infrastructure collapse. In crisis scenarios–whether triggered by natural disasters, civil unrest, or infrastructure failure–electricity grids prove highly vulnerable, and, when they fail, trigger cascading failures across other critical infrastructure. Read more: The future of architecture: 5 sustainable buildings changing the skyline Water supply systems, critically dependent on electricity for pumping, treatment, and distribution, typically cease functioning within hours or days. Water pressure drops, pumps fail, and treatment facilities can no longer purify or deliver water, creating profound impacts on health, sanitation, and survival. Above Solar panels provide reliable, renewable energy (Photo: Unsplash) Above Manual hand pumps provide access to water sources (Photo: Pexels) The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) recommends that 'a robust off-grid solar setup with lithium-ion battery banks, such as the Tesla Powerwall, provides reliable, renewable energy whilst reducing dependence on unstable grids.' Furthermore, solar systems prove particularly viable in Southeast Asia's sun-rich environment, offering year-round energy generation potential. See also: Hypermarket chain TF Value Mart partners Plus Xnergy as part of its carbon-neutral strategy Layered backup systems should be in place as well. Diesel or propane dual-fuel generators provide secondary power sources, whilst manual hand-crank or pedal generators serve as tertiary options for essential devices during extended outages. For rural properties, the FAO advocates biogas systems as sustainable energy solutions. Kitchen waste or animal manure can generate cooking fuel, reducing reliance on external supply chains whilst managing organic waste effectively. Photo 1 of 2 Collection tanks combined with UV filters or ceramic drip filters ensure reliable potable water supplies (Photo: Pexels) Photo 2 of 2 Properties with access to groundwater benefit from additional security measures (Photo: Pexels) Rainwater harvesting represents a particularly suitable water strategy for tropical climates with abundant precipitation. Modular collection tanks combined with UV filters or ceramic drip filters ensure reliable potable water supplies independent of municipal systems. Don't miss: Home tour: A tropical courtyard bungalow designed to be a family oasis in Malaysia Also, properties with access to groundwater benefit from additional security measures, offering enhanced reliability during extended infrastructure disruptions. Deep wells equipped with manual hand pumps, properly secured from contamination, provide redundant water sources when integrated with rainwater harvesting systems. Food independence Above Supermarket shelves can empty within hours to days after a major disruption (Photo: Unsplash) In cities, supermarket shelves can empty within hours to days after a major disruption due to panic buying, supply chain breakdowns, or infrastructure collapse. Most households maintain only a few days' to a week's worth of food on hand, and in the absence of resupply, many families will face shortages within the first week. Read more: Climate change is threatening Malaysia's food security—here's how we can mitigate it Above Canned goods form the backbone of emergency food storage (Photo: Pexels) Above Sacks of grains are also a popular go-to for emergency food storage (Photo: Pexels) Freeze-dried meals, grains, and canned goods form the backbone of emergency food storage. For these supplies, spare rooms or basements can be converted into dry pantries with efficient use of vertical space, modular shelving, and proper labeling to improve accessibility and inventory management. See also: 10 iconic home brands that became household names Other options include cold storage rooms equipped with insulation, temperature control, and humidity management; while traditional root cellars or underground pantries provide natural temperature regulation and humidity control, extending the shelf life of vegetables and perishables without electricity. Above Spare rooms can be converted into dry pantries with efficient use of vertical space and modular shelving (Photo: Pexels) Above Cold storage rooms equipped with insulation, temperature control, and humidity management (Photo: Pexels) However, experts estimate that most people would find it nearly impossible to stockpile enough food for more than a few months. In case of long-term crises, storing years' worth of food for a family of four would require significant space and cost, making it impractical for most households. While meticulous food rationing can extend supplies, innovative food production becomes essential for long-term survival if agriculture is disrupted for years. Don't miss: Qarbotech co-founder Chor Chee Hoe is on a mission to revolutionise agriculture and face down world hunger Above Hydroponics maximises space usage while supplementing food production (Photo: Pexels) Above Stamba Hotel in Georgia houses the country's first vertical farm, Space Farm (Photo: Design Hotels) Vertical gardening using soilless cultivation methods like aeroponics or hydroponics maximises space usage. These techniques are increasingly adopted in urban or flood-prone areas with limited land to supplement food production. 'Small rooftop gardens or greenhouses provide year-round fresh produce, [particularly herbs and leafy greens,] improving food security and microclimate cooling,' notes the FAO. Read more: 5 design and sustainably-led hotels around the world ScienceDirect experts add that aquaponics–with low-maintenance protein sources like tilapia or catfish–creates a symbiotic system when combined with soilless plant cultivation; maximising water and nutrient efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Above Potatoes are perennial crops excellent for sustainable food security (Photo: Unsplash) Above Bananas are fast-growing, nutrient-dense, and well-suited to tropical climates (Photo: Pexels) For homes with more extensive acreage, the FAO suggests planting perennial crops like bananas, moringa, cassava, sweet potato, taro, and lemongrass. 'They are fast-growing, nutrient-dense, and well-suited to tropical climates, making them excellent choices for sustainable food security,' the specialised United Nations agency explains. See also: These farmers grow your food, but can't afford to eat—this social enterprise is changing that Home security and safety Above Tall hedges provide privacy for SLS Properties Inc's Villa La Maida project in Los Angeles (Photo: Todd Goodman / LA Light) Natural fencing is usually constructed around a property's perimeter to maintain privacy while offering a lush view from inside homes. This landscaping approach also provides stealth security that blends with the landscape and building design, enhancing resilience and reducing risk compared to overtly fortified structures that attract unwanted attention. 'Using dense, thorny plants such as bougainvillea or bamboo alongside fencing creates a natural, low-maintenance barrier that discourages intrusion without drawing attention,' according to experts from Landscape Architecture Magazine . Don't miss: Home tour: A Mediterranean-inspired home that brings a piece of Tuscany to Los Angeles Above Solar-powered surveillance cameras provide sustainable, low-maintenance perimeter security (Photo: Pexels) Above Geese make excellent natural alert systems due to their keen senses and territorial behaviour (Photo: Pexels) Additionally, modern residential security design can be integrated to buff up the home's security. Solar-powered motion sensor lights and surveillance cameras provide sustainable, low-maintenance perimeter security, triggering real-time alerts and deterring intruders effectively. Read more: Kamarul Muhamed of Aerodyne on his journey with drone technology In fact, low-tech tripwire alarms such as bells or cans can be equally effective in providing simple but reliable perimeter alerts in rural or low-power settings; while dogs and geese, according to the Journal of Animal Behavior , serve as excellent natural alert systems, functioning as noisy sentinels due to their keen senses and territorial behaviour. Above Frightened Jackson citizens hiding in basement shelters in 'The Last of Us' (Photo: HBO Max) Finally, when intrusions, severe weather, or other emergencies occur, fortified spaces stocked with essentials allow homeowners to shelter safely until the threat passes. 'Safe rooms should be located away from windows and accessible from multiple points,' advises Architecture Lab . 'Typical sizes range around ten by ten feet with eight to nine-foot ceiling heights for optimal comfort and functionality.' See also: Home tour: A colour coordinated holiday home in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts Design criteria for safe rooms–including panic rooms, crawlspaces, basement shelters, and bunkers–established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) require reinforced concrete walls with steel rebar or prestressed panels, and impact-resistant doors must meet ICC 500 standards for tornado and hurricane resistance. Secure ventilation systems should be integrated to prevent debris and water ingress, with emergency power, typically provided by generators or battery units, maintaining lighting and ventilation during outages. Above Safe rooms should be stocked with communication devices, including battery-operated radios and satellite phones (Photo: Pexels)
Scoop
18-05-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
In Baghdad, Guterres Affirms UN Will Never Forget Staff Killed In Canal Hotel Attack
18 May 2025 António Guterres was speaking during a wreath-laying ceremony at a memorial in Baghdad to honour the victims of the Canal Hotel bombing - the worst terrorist attack in UN history. Twenty-two people were killed, including the then UN Special Representative for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello. More than 100 others were injured, and several survivors attended the ceremony. Families still mourning Mr. Guterres told the audience that '22 years is a long time, but we will never forget the colleagues who were killed that day in the bombing at the Canal Hotel.' These staff members 'were sons, daughters, mothers, fathers and friends who are, to this day, mourned by those they knew and loved,' he said. 'We will always remember their leader, Sergio Vieira de Mello, who was also killed in the attack. We will stand with the survivors whose lives were changed forever,' he added. 'And we will remember the courageous colleagues and others who rushed to help on that terrible day, and in the days and weeks after — showing us the very best of the humanitarian spirit.' A tribute and reminder Mr. Guterres said the memorial stands as a tribute to their lives and their contributions to the people of Iraq. It also serves as a reminder of how far the country has come since 2003. He noted that the women and men of the United Nations have worked tirelessly together with the brave and resilient people of Iraq to support their quest for stability, development and peace. He stressed that above all, the memorial is 'a clear reminder of the vital work that our organization does around the world — and the dangers our people face in carrying out that work.' Remembering humanitarians worldwide Five years after the attack the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution designating 19 August as World Humanitarian Day. This date 'has been forever transformed from a day of unimaginable horror and tragedy here in Iraq into a global day of solemn remembrance for all humanitarians — inside and outside the organization,' Mr. Guterres said. 'Their bravery, dedication, and belief that a better future is possible will always inspire us. And like those whose lives were lost on 19 August 2003, their sacrifices and contributions to our world — and to our vital cause of peace — will never be forgotten.' Meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister The Secretary-General was in Baghdad to attend the League of Arab States Summit. He also met with senior Iraqi officials, including Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani. During talks on Sunday, they discussed developments in Iraq and the region, as well as the remaining period of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). The Secretary-General reaffirmed that the UN remains fully committed to continuing to support the Government and people of Iraq following the mission's departure. UNAMI has been in the country since 2003 and is working to conclude its mandate by the end of the year.
Time Out Dubai
16-05-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
6 UAE visas you don't need a boss for
If you're looking to land a long-term UAE visa and don't want to chase a boss for sponsorship, then these might take your fancy. When long-term residency visas such as the golden visa were first launched in the UAE, they were largely aimed towards those who work in key industries. But in the past few years, the process has become a lot more open, and it's possible to be eligible without the need for a traditional nine-to-five. Gamers, influencers, volunteers and more are now able to get their hands on long-term residency permits. Blue visa The 10-year blue visa has officially been launched (Credit: Canva) Officially launched in 2025, the blue visa will grant 10-year residency to people who have made extraordinary contributions to protecting the environment. Candidates for the blue visa will need to be experts in a range of fields including environmental sciences, marine biology and climate action. While many of the criteria for the blue visa include professional achievements in the environmental field, global award winners and activists are entitled to apply for the long-term UAE visa. For more information on the blue visa head here, and to apply for the blue residency, check out the Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security site. Dubai influencer visa (Credit: Canva) Social media influencers, photographers, writers or any other type of content creator are all able to apply for a golden visa. The creators' visa is eligible for people with a proven track record of impactful content, content creation award winners, show potential for creating value by contributing to the UAE's creative community and those who can demonstrate consistent growth and engagement. A Creators HQ, which will act as your sponsor, was established in 2025 and aims to grant long-term visas to up to 10,000 content creators. Humanitarian volunteers ITP Media Group partners with Dubai Cares for long-term support in the region. Credit: Dubai Cares First announced on World Humanitarian Day in 2021, this visa applies to humanitarian volunteers as well as those who work in a humanitarian organisation. Relevant criteria for volunteers include anyone who has carried out at least 500 hours of service, a minister has nominated them as a humanitarian pioneer and those who have won an award of appreciation from a local or international organisation specialising in humanitarian work. Outstanding students and graduates Students and graduates could qualify for a long-term UAE visa (Credit: Canva) Top students and high achievers in the UAE's secondary school system, top UAE university graduates and high achievers from the best 100 universities worldwide are all able to apply for long-term residence. University students with a grade point average of no less than 3.5 are eligible to apply for the golden visa, while high school students who have obtained an average rate of at least 95 percent in their certificate are also eligible. The families of these students will also be included in the golden visa. UAE gaming visa The Dubai gaming visa aims to grow the industry in the emirate (Credit: Adobe Express) The Dubai government has set up a special website dedicated to the Dubai Program For Gaming 2033, which will focus on bringing talent, content and tech for the industry to the emirate. Dubai aims to increase its Gross Domestic Product by Dhs3.6 billion ($1 billion) by 2033 from gaming alone and create 30,000 jobs in the industry. Aimed towards those who make video games, including smaller indie games, the visa form states it is looking for animators, educators, designers, developers, producers and publishers. UAE investor visa Property investors can qualify for the golden visa if the property's value is Dhs2 million or more, regardless of whether it's off-plan, completed or mortgaged. There is no minimum down payment requirement for the visa application to go through. You could also be entitled to a golden visa if you have made significant public investments including a deposit of no less than Dhs2 million in a company's capital, if you're a partner in a company's capital with no less than Dhs2 million or if you have a letter from the Federal Tax Authority stating that you either pay the government Dhs250,000 annually or that you're a partner in an establishment that pays Dhs250,000 in tax annually. Essential guides to living in Dubai How to live in Dubai without working You need a self-sponsored visa The best restaurants in Dubai More than 50 tried and tested venues Dubai happy hours: Best bar deals, offers and discounts Cheap drinks every night of the week? You've come to the right place
Yahoo
20-02-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Volunteer, 95, who helped raise almost £2m for humanitarian causes meets King
A 95-year-old woman who helped raise almost £2 million by setting up a charity shop met the King at a celebration for the heroes of humanitarian causes. Concern Worldwide volunteer Nellie Hill, of Newcastle, Co Down, opened the shop in 1992 in response to the Concern Emergency Appeal for the humanitarian crisis in Somalia. Mrs Hill said she wanted to help because 'she felt it was her duty' and the shop has since raised £1.83 million for Concern. On Thursday at a reception at Buckingham Palace, where she met Charles and Camilla, she said: 'It is a lovely thank you to come here and say hello, although I did not think it was anything special to do then (when she opened the shop) – I just thought it was my duty at the time.' Charles and Camilla were joined by the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester at the reception to celebrate exceptional individuals and organisations which contribute towards humanitarian efforts across the globe. It also marked the anniversaries of four global charities: International Health Partners, ShelterBox, Islamic Relief and Christian Aid. Mrs Hill, a mother-of-three and an eight-time grandmother, said, 'there are a lot of people doing it and volunteering'. She added: 'I started the work because I saw there was a need for it as at that particular time there was an awful lot on the television and radio asking for help for Somalia. 'The pictures were frightening and sickening and I felt I could do something. 'I am still doing the work with them but as I get older I am not as able.' This year marks the 20th anniversary of International Health Partners, the 25th anniversary of ShelterBox, the 40th anniversary of Islamic Relief Worldwide and the 80th anniversary of Christian Aid. Displays at the reception showing the work of the four humanitarian organisations provided a chance for the guests to catch up on the latest efforts of the charities and to also hear stories from volunteers. There was also a collection of images from the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) sent to the King for World Humanitarian Day in August 2024. There were 15 images, one from each of DEC's member charities, which covered the work from recent appeals including for Afghanistan, Ukraine, Pakistan and Turkey-Syria. Images for Sudan and Gaza, where the DEC is closely monitoring the situation, were also part of the collection. Also present at the celebration were actresses Liz Carr and Ruth Wilson, and presenters Fern Britton and Myleene Klass, who have also worked with a number of charities. Lyse Doucet, the BBC's chief international correspondent and cricketer Abtaha Maqsood, who is a supporter of Islamic Relief, were also among the guests. Actress and disability rights campaigner Ms Carr said: 'I think the needs for charitable and aid work is increasing. It is not a thankless task but it could feel like that because it is needed more than ever. 'So, to have a moment, to have an afternoon where someone says, 'thank you for what you do' before you go back and do it all again – just feels really important.' Ms Wilson, who has worked with DEC, said: 'I have nicely been invited to this event today but it is not about us – it is about all the wonderful people who do the work of aiding people who need our help. 'It feels like it is ever more important now, and more than ever, that these people are supported in their work and we continue to support them and give money. 'The future does not necessarily look bright in terms of the rest of the world so that is why it is important that we do as much as we can and to celebrate them. These people are doing extraordinary things.' Ms Britton attended to support ShelterBox, her local charity in Cornwall. She described Thursday's recognition of the work being done as 'incredible', adding: 'It is an honour for them to be recognised. I know that the King is interested in it. 'ShelterBox feels like a community-based charity but it is doing something global. It is making a big-time difference and I am very proud to be associated with it.' International Health Partners (IHP) is a global health NGO that helps people in disaster-hit and vulnerable communities access the medicines they need. IHP is celebrating 20 years of making an impact, having helped more than 100 million people access healthcare following natural disasters and conflicts, and through long-term development projects across 76 countries. ShelterBox is an international disaster charity providing emergency shelter and other essential household items including tents, tarpaulins, water filters and blankets to families around the world who have lost their homes to disaster, conflict and climate crises. More than three million people have been supported by the charity since it was formed 25 years ago. Islamic Relief is an independent humanitarian and development organisation which has been serving vulnerable communities across the globe since 1984. The Birmingham-founded organisation has grown into one of the world's largest, faith-inspired charities with offices delivering programmes that support vulnerable people in more than 40 countries worldwide. Christian Aid partners with communities and organisations globally to support people of every faith and none at all by tackling the root causes of poverty and responding to humanitarian emergencies.
The Independent
20-02-2025
- General
- The Independent
Volunteer, 95, who helped raise almost £2m for humanitarian causes meets King
A 95-year-old woman who helped raise almost £2 million by setting up a charity shop met the King at a celebration for the heroes of humanitarian causes. Concern Worldwide volunteer Nellie Hill, of Newcastle, Co Down, opened the shop in 1992 in response to the Concern Emergency Appeal for the humanitarian crisis in Somalia. Mrs Hill said she wanted to help because 'she felt it was her duty' and the shop has since raised £1.83 million for Concern. On Thursday at a reception at Buckingham Palace, where she met Charles and Camilla, she said: 'It is a lovely thank you to come here and say hello, although I did not think it was anything special to do then (when she opened the shop) – I just thought it was my duty at the time.' Charles and Camilla were joined by the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester at the reception to celebrate exceptional individuals and organisations which contribute towards humanitarian efforts across the globe. It also marked the anniversaries of four global charities: International Health Partners, ShelterBox, Islamic Relief and Christian Aid. Mrs Hill, a mother-of-three and an eight-time grandmother, said, 'there are a lot of people doing it and volunteering'. She added: 'I started the work because I saw there was a need for it as at that particular time there was an awful lot on the television and radio asking for help for Somalia. 'The pictures were frightening and sickening and I felt I could do something. 'I am still doing the work with them but as I get older I am not as able.' This year marks the 20th anniversary of International Health Partners, the 25th anniversary of ShelterBox, the 40th anniversary of Islamic Relief Worldwide and the 80th anniversary of Christian Aid. Displays at the reception showing the work of the four humanitarian organisations provided a chance for the guests to catch up on the latest efforts of the charities and to also hear stories from volunteers. There was also a collection of images from the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) sent to the King for World Humanitarian Day in August 2024. There were 15 images, one from each of DEC's member charities, which covered the work from recent appeals including for Afghanistan, Ukraine, Pakistan and Turkey-Syria. Images for Sudan and Gaza, where the DEC is closely monitoring the situation, were also part of the collection. Also present at the celebration were actresses Liz Carr and Ruth Wilson, and presenters Fern Britton and Myleene Klass, who have also worked with a number of charities. Lyse Doucet, the BBC's chief international correspondent and cricketer Abtaha Maqsood, who is a supporter of Islamic Relief, were also among the guests. Actress and disability rights campaigner Ms Carr said: 'I think the needs for charitable and aid work is increasing. It is not a thankless task but it could feel like that because it is needed more than ever. 'So, to have a moment, to have an afternoon where someone says, 'thank you for what you do' before you go back and do it all again – just feels really important.' Ms Wilson, who has worked with DEC, said: 'I have nicely been invited to this event today but it is not about us – it is about all the wonderful people who do the work of aiding people who need our help. 'It feels like it is ever more important now, and more than ever, that these people are supported in their work and we continue to support them and give money. 'The future does not necessarily look bright in terms of the rest of the world so that is why it is important that we do as much as we can and to celebrate them. These people are doing extraordinary things.' Ms Britton attended to support ShelterBox, her local charity in Cornwall. She described Thursday's recognition of the work being done as 'incredible', adding: 'It is an honour for them to be recognised. I know that the King is interested in it. 'ShelterBox feels like a community-based charity but it is doing something global. It is making a big-time difference and I am very proud to be associated with it.' International Health Partners (IHP) is a global health NGO that helps people in disaster-hit and vulnerable communities access the medicines they need. IHP is celebrating 20 years of making an impact, having helped more than 100 million people access healthcare following natural disasters and conflicts, and through long-term development projects across 76 countries. ShelterBox is an international disaster charity providing emergency shelter and other essential household items including tents, tarpaulins, water filters and blankets to families around the world who have lost their homes to disaster, conflict and climate crises. More than three million people have been supported by the charity since it was formed 25 years ago. Islamic Relief is an independent humanitarian and development organisation which has been serving vulnerable communities across the globe since 1984. The Birmingham-founded organisation has grown into one of the world's largest, faith-inspired charities with offices delivering programmes that support vulnerable people in more than 40 countries worldwide. Christian Aid partners with communities and organisations globally to support people of every faith and none at all by tackling the root causes of poverty and responding to humanitarian emergencies.
