Covid deaths in India have passed 200,000 today.

We must work together as a global community to tackle the pandemic.

The health service is overwhelmed, people are unable to access urgent medical assistance, they are struggling for hospital beds and there is a shortage of lifesaving oxygen supplies.

BASW extends our thoughts to the people of India and stand in solidarity with our health, care and social work colleagues who are working on the frontline in these brutal and challenging conditions.

We also stand together in support and are here for our colleagues and members in the UK who have family and friends living in India who are faced with heartbreak, worry and stress for their loved ones.

We must work together as a global community to tackle the pandemic.

The UK government has provided some vital support already, but more help is needed. We call on the UK government to do more in sending support, equipment and supplies to help the people of India.