The Fiji Red Cross Society

HISTORY Although an ad hoc nucleus was formed during the First World War (1914-1918), Red Cross activities were not conducted on an organised basis until the early 1950s when the British Red Cross established an overseas Branch in the then Crown Colony of Fiji. Following the granting of Independence to Fiji in 1970 the former Branch sought recognition as a National Society.  National Society recognition was achieved in 1971 when the government officially recognised FRCS as an auxiliary to public authorities and as the only Red Cross Society in Fiji. Today there are 16  FRCS Branches around the country:  Rabi, Rotuma, Seaqaqa, Savusavu, Bua, Taveuni, Labasa, Levuka, Rakiraki, Tavua, Ba, Lautoka, Nadi, Sigatoka, Suva and Nalawa. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is made up of the International Committee of the Red Corss (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the National Societies. WHAT THEY DO Their work focuses on building safe, healthy and resilient communities in Fiji so you will see their programmes, services and activities whether it is in disaster management, health or resource development, they all move towards this goal. THEIR VISION A resilient Fiji, free from vulnerabilities, where people are ready to offer impartial and voluntary assistance to those in need. THEIR MISSION To build safe, healthy and resilient communities by working with their partners and empowering volunteers in humanitarian service and advocacy. THEIR COMMITMENT The Fiji Red Cross makes the following commitment to the people of Fiji. The Fiji Red Cross will: Promise a lifelong commitment to the people of Fiji Provide immediate assistance to those most in need Build the resilience and well-being of Fiji’s vulnerable communities Value and work with local volunteers to respond to the needs of communities Involve local people by using community-centred and participatory approaches to their work Work in partnership with community, government and other civil society organisations Use humanitarian diplomacy and advocacy to achieve change at a policy and program level THEIR VALUES The Fiji Red Cross is committed to the following values: The seven Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement Professionalism, transparency and accountability Teamwork and collaboration Innovation, learning, continuous improvement and growth Integrity, honesty and commitment Diversity and unity in their workforce and programmes Dignity and respect for all, including the elderly and those with disabilities Gender equality in their workforce and their programmes Safety, well-being and the rights of children protected at all times Taking time to celebrate the contribution of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, its staff, volunteers and supporters