UK Send £2.5 Million In Relief Aid To Jamaica and The Caribbean For Hurricane Melissa

The United Kingdom Government has announced an urgent £2.5 million (approximately JMD $510 million) humanitarian package to support Jamaica and the wider Caribbean in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa — the most powerful storm in the island’s recorded history.

The emergency funding will go toward rapid response operations, including the delivery of shelter kits, water filters, blankets, and other vital relief items to communities affected by the Category 5 hurricane. These supplies are pre-positioned in Antigua for immediate deployment across the region.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper confirmed the funding and emphasized that the UK’s priority is supporting Jamaica’s government and people during this critical period.

“The UK is acting swiftly to support the Jamaican authorities in providing disaster relief and expertise in response to this terrible storm,” Cooper said.

“Specialist rapid deployment teams have also been positioned in the region to provide consular assistance round the clock to British nationals affected by the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.”

The UK’s humanitarian and technical experts are already being dispatched to help coordinate on-the-ground relief and logistics, ensuring timely delivery of emergency aid.

 “FULL SOLIDARITY WITH THE PEOPLE OF JAMAICA”

The new British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Alicia Herbert OBE, reaffirmed the UK’s long-standing commitment to the island nation:

“The UK stands in full solidarity with the people of Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. We are deeply saddened by the loss and disruption this storm has caused,” Herbert said.

“Our thoughts are with those who have been affected, and we pay tribute to the courage and resilience of the Jamaican people as recovery begins. The UK is committed to supporting Jamaica through this challenging time, working alongside the Government of Jamaica and our partners to assist with relief and rebuilding efforts.”

️ ROYAL NAVY & DEFENCE SUPPORT

As part of its coordinated disaster response, the Royal Navy ship HMS Trent is currently stationed in the Caribbean to provide maritime support and logistical assistance if required.

The UK Ministry of Defence has also pre-deployed a team to the Turks and Caicos Islands to strengthen disaster management capabilities throughout all phases — preparation, response, and recovery.

Additionally, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has deployed a specialist Rapid Deployment Team to Miami, equipped to provide consular support to British nationals impacted by the storm. The team includes emergency-trained staff to liaise with Jamaican authorities and humanitarian partners to ensure that all British citizens receive necessary aid and information.

 COORDINATED REGIONAL RESPONSE

The UK’s relief operation is being carried out in partnership with the Government of Jamaica, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and various UN agencies to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches the most vulnerable communities swiftly and effectively.

British nationals currently in Jamaica are advised to register their presence with the FCDO to receive real-time updates and emergency guidance.

 GLOBAL SOLIDARITY IN ACTION

As Jamaica begins the difficult road to recovery following Hurricane Melissa’s unprecedented destruction, the UK’s swift intervention underscores the importance of international cooperation in the face of climate-related disasters.

The relief deployment demonstrates the UK’s ongoing role as a key development partner in the Caribbean — not just in rebuilding infrastructure, but in reinforcing resilience and connectivity across the region.

PHOTO: UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper | British High Commissioner Alicia Herbert OBE | HMS Trent (Royal Navy)