Ukraine Response: Responders provide essential medical training for frontline workers

REACT Responder Matt Ladbrook has been providing essential medical training for UEP frontline workers in Lviv, Ukraine. Ukrainian Education Platform is a trusted partner of REACT and their volunteers have been providing vital support, including countless numbers of hot meals, for communities in areas of high risk throughout the conflict.

Matt, who is a GP experienced in operating in harsh conditions, provided a 3-hour bespoke program tailored to the needs of the group that included a structured approach to trauma casualty. There was an emphasis on dealing with immediate trauma care in a complex environment, drawing on current international good practice. The ten UEP volunteers had ample opportunity to learn hands-on techniques that can be used in real-life situations. 

Matt is one half of a two-person liaison team that has deployed to the Kharkiv region. Alongside REACT Ukraine Lead David Harrington, he will be providing specific help for some of REACT’s trusted partner organisations on the ground.

REACT’s work in Ukraine began soon after the conflict began over 18 months ago and since then we have continued to work with local partners. Our response began by ensuring aid and relief supplies reached those most in need, organising collections and convoys across Europe. Supplies were taken to sorting warehouses in Eastern Poland and from there were delivered right into the heart of Ukraine.

Since then, we have helped organise the provision of essential food packs and the distribution of hot meals in Dnipro and later in Kharkiv throughout the frozen Ukrainian winter. Following the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in June this year, REACT supported the distribution of over 10,000 desperately needed hot meals through a partnership with local NGO Myrne Nebo.