Being a RedR Member

Experienced aid worker and RedR member Joseph Ashmore has completed various assignments in countries as diverse as Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Niger. Here he talks to RedR about his experiences.

Please tell us about one of the projects you have worked on?

Immediately after the earthquake, I went to Pakistan with Save the Children, through a contact I made at RedR. My role involved identifying what kind of support can be given to people within communities, particularly with regards to their material needs and deciding on the most appropriate response. The humanitarian effort had a huge part to play in helping people through the first winter, preventing a second wave of death due to cold. My second job in Pakistan was through RedR, working with various humanitarian organisations to provide technical advice and coordination of the overall response. I was out there on that occasion for two months and then on a third occasion with RedR as a trainer, training on camp closure following the winter, when people were in the process of returning to their homes.

What changes did you notice over the time you spent there?

I noticed significant changes between earlier this year, 2007 and 2005; the majority of people were on the road to recovery and were to an extent reconstructing their lives, which was great to see.

What have you gained from being a RedR member?

For me it’s been about contact – in particular having access to a whole network of people. I’ve used the Technical Support Service and replied to Technical Support Service queries, as well as attending training courses. In the field being a member is a fantastic ice breaker when you bump into people. It’s also another thing that helps projects to run smoothly.

What have you gained from your experiences?

Friendships and interesting memories! I have learnt a huge amount. Every time you do an assignment you learn about the subject and how best to respond to it. I’ve taken home many lessons on how to do things.

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