Sir, I have recently been impressed by the work of Oxfam Scotland, which, as a member of the Disasters Emergency Committee, has launched a politically impartial Gaza Crisis Appeal that I believe it is worth drawing the attention of your readers to.

We’ve all seen the distressing pictures of the terrible situation in Gaza. The UN says the health system in Gaza is on the verge of collapse.

Twenty-four health facilities have been damaged, with acute shortages of medicines and medical supplies. In addition, UN figures confirm 1.5 million people have no, or very limited, access to water or sanitation (due to infrastructure damage and the lack of electricity affecting pumping and processing plants); Up to 520,000 people may be displaced and in need of food assistance, with many crammed into overcrowded UN shelters; 65,000 people have seen their homes destroyed or damaged beyond repair; More than 1,900 Palestinians have been killed, most are civilians; At least 456 children have been killed, and more than 2,900 have been injured; 67 Israelis killed, including three civilians.

The DEC is impartial, neutral and non-political. Its priority is tackling the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. It helps whoever needs it most. Every donation, even the smallest, makes a difference.

To make a donation, please visit www.dec.org.uk, call the 24-hour hotline on 0370 60 60 900, visit any high street bank or post office, or send a cheque. You can also donate £5 by texting the word SUPPORT to 70000.

I know that people in this part of Scotland are very generous; let’s make a difference to people who are suffering in Gaza today I am, etc.

John Ferry Craigerne Crescent Peebles