Save the Children launches global campaign to stop the killing in Syria and gain open and full access for humanitarian aid

Justin Forsyth, Save the Children’s chief executive said: “It is time to stop the killing in Syria. We know children have already lost their lives, and others have been badly wounded. Children in Syria will be deeply scarred by their experiences and need urgent help. Save the Children is getting aid to children who have escaped Syria to neighbouring countries, but we cannot reach those still in the country. We need people around the world to join us in calling for an immediate end to the violence so we can get urgent help to children in Syria.”  

Children have been killed and injured in recent fighting across the country. Others have been trapped in their homes for weeks under heavy bombardment, and are likely to be terrified, hungry, thirsty and cold.   

While the ICRC has been allowed access to certain areas, it is vital that all humanitarian agencies are given unfettered access to help children in need.   

The campaign asks people to text their support for an immediate halt to violence in Syria and calls for open access for humanitarian agencies across the country. People can also join the campaign by signing an online petition.

Save the Children is working on the Syrian border in Lebanon and Jordan, running safe places for children to play and working with schools and teachers to help children who have been through traumatic experiences. We are prepared to enter Syria if given permission.

To join the campaign text END to 87474 or go to savethechildren.org.uk/syriacrisis

For more information and interviews in London or Beirut please contact Save the Children media team on + 44 207 012 6841 or +44 7831 650 409.