Dawn Butler

APPG Jamaica Statement

On behalf of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Jamaica, we are deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the Hurricane Melissa throughout Jamaica and the wider region.

Although the extent of the damage remains unclear, it is undoubtedly devastating in its effect on all aspects on the lives and livelihoods of Jamaicans and all who know them. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who have tragically lost their lives, and everyone affected in this challenging time, both to those in Jamaica and those with loved ones in the country. We stand in solidarity with those working to rebuild and recover.

The APPG held an emergency general meeting yesterday with its principal members and the UK's Foreign Office to discuss the UK response and identify practical ways to assist in Jamaica’s recovery, including mobilising UK resources, both financial and physical and to deliver support where it is most urgently needed.

Our conversations highlighted the importance of close collaboration with local authorities, NGOs, community organisations, and international aid agencies to coordinate relief and rebuilding efforts effectively. HMG and the Jamaica APPG remain committed to working closely with these partners to ensure that timely assistance reaches priority areas, while also providing support to British nationals in Jamaica and the Jamaican diaspora community in the UK.

The UK Government has established a 24-hour crisis centre to assist British nationals affected by Hurricane Melissa.

If you require support in any way, please contact +44 20 7008 5000.

If you or your loved ones have not yet done so, please register your presence in Jamaica using the following link:

https://www.register.service.csd.fcdo.gov.uk/jamaica-20251028/tell-the-uk-government-youre-in-jamaica

The Government has also launched a dedicated donation portal to support crucial recovery efforts. Should you wish to, please refer to the UK Government's website to learn how you can help Jamaica in its hour of need:

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/hurricane-melissa-what-you-can-do-to-help

Jamaica continues to share deep and enduring ties with the UK, and your support at this time is deeply appreciated. Every donation, no matter the size, will help communities heal, rebuild, and look towards a brighter future. In one of Jamaica’s times of greatest need, we kindly call upon your generosity to support those affected and help the island recover.

As Chair, I would like to thank the government Minister, representatives from the FCDO, and the Jamaica High Commission. We stand united in our commitment to lead efforts in Parliament and beyond to provide the vital support Jamaica needs during this urgent time of recovery and rebuilding.

Dawn Butler MP

Chair, APPG Jamaica

APPG Jamaica Secretariat

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