Muslim Aid is the first major UK charity in Leicester to provide relief to Storm Henk victim

Muslim Aid is the first major UK charity to arrive in Leicestershire to provide humanitarian aid to those affected by Storm Henk.

Dozens of flood alerts are in force as widespread flooding has hit Leicestershire in the wake of Storm Henk, leaving residents vulnerable to losing their homes and lives.

Ahmed Choudhury, Muslim Aid's Fundraising and Volunteer Coordinator, arrived in Leicestershire on Wednesday evening to oversee a needs assessment and to coordinate a specific response for the local community.

Muslim Aid has so far confirmed the distribution of food vouchers and feminine hygiene kits, says Lucy Rae, Muslim Aid's UK Programmes Manager.

Lucy says: “As families enter into 2024 they are waking up to devastation and the situation is only going to get worse as water levels continue to rise and people lose their homes and possessions. We ask individuals to support where they can as the Muslim Aid team work tirelessly to give support and assistance to families in Leicester.”

Ahmed says: "As soon as I heard the news about the floodings in Loughborough and Leicester I immediately drove up to see what first hand support we can offer. Upon my arrival I saw several roads being blocked by the police, fire brigades as well as the search and rescue team on the ground.  

 There were houses that had water waist level high. Many vulnerable and elderly people have had to be moved to different places of accommodation. There are houses without electricity and heating due to the flooding.  

I spoke with Kelly from Loughborough, and she said that the entire community got together to help each other out in this time of need. After conducting the initial 24-hour response I was able to identify what needs to be done next and have reported it back to my team who will be back in Leicester to support those in need. "