**Stars Unite in Plea for UK Government Action to Address Crisis in Sudan**
A coalition of prominent British figures has issued a public appeal to the UK Government, urging immediate intervention to address the escalating humanitarian crisis gripping Sudan. Spearheaded by children’s charity Plan International UK, the initiative brings together influential voices from across entertainment, sport and music in a bid to draw urgent attention to the suffering of millions.
Among the 50 high-profile signatories of the open letter are Downton Abbey actress Joanne Froggatt, noted actor Will Poulter, Bridgerton’s Adjoa Andoh and chart-topping singer Cat Burns. Their collective call, which will be personally delivered to 10 Downing Street, coincides with a petition signed by over 8,500 members of the public, reflecting widespread concern about the catastrophic conditions in Sudan.
Ms Froggatt, known for her roles on stage and screen, described the harrowing situation faced by Sudanese children: “Millions have been forced into overcrowded and hazardous camps within Sudan and in neighbouring countries. These settings place countless young lives at risk, with hunger, disease, and violence now an everyday reality.” She emphasised the urgent need for government support, stating, “We cannot allow these children’s voices to go unheard — urgent intervention is vital, and simply discussing the crisis can have life-saving consequences.”
The unrest in Sudan, triggered by the outbreak of civil war in April 2023, has resulted in the nation topping the International Rescue Committee’s Emergency Watchlist for a second consecutive year. Reports from aid organisations describe the ongoing conflict as the world’s largest and fastest-moving displacement crisis, eclipsing previous records for humanitarian emergencies.
Other notable supporters of the campaign include England footballer Lucy Bronze, celebrated director Sir Steve McQueen, and iconic musician Peter Gabriel. Renowned TV chef Delia Smith and professional boxer Ramla Ali have also lent their voices to the call for action—highlighting the broad cross-section of British society rallying behind the cause.
In the open letter, the signatories highlight the gravity of the crisis: “After more than two years of conflict, Sudan has become the world’s most critical humanitarian emergency, with some 24.6 million people — half the country’s population — now suffering acute food shortages. Time is rapidly running out for those affected, as starvation, violence and disease continue to claim lives daily. The government must respond swiftly to prevent further tragedy.”
Singer Cat Burns, famous for her emotional singles, commented on the scope of the crisis: “Children are being uprooted, living in deprivation, and facing unimaginable realities. The world must not ignore this disaster — we need immediate, unified action to limit the suffering and loss.”
The signatories have also requested that the government increase diplomatic pressure to secure a ceasefire, alongside enhanced emergency funding and bolstering support for local aid groups. Actor Will Poulter, who has worked on global awareness campaigns, added: “Reports of starvation are appalling, and we are witnessing a crisis that could become one of the worst famines of all time. Without rapid intervention, children and families in Sudan face the very real risk of mass starvation.”
Backing for the initiative comes not just from celebrities but also key humanitarian organisations. Senior executives from Save the Children UK, Cafod, Action Against Hunger, and Christian Aid have endorsed the letter, echoing calls for immediate government engagement. Mohamed Kamal, country director for Plan International Sudan, reflected on the staggering impact: “Two years of ongoing violence, restricted aid access and the collapse of food supplies have left Sudan facing a humanitarian emergency not seen in generations. Each day brings new risks for children, from acute hunger to the threat of war and disease. Abandoning them is simply not an option.”
Responding to the growing calls for action, a spokesperson for the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office conceded the severity of the situation: “Sudan is enduring one of the most critical humanitarian crises of our time. The UK remains committed to supporting those in desperate need, most recently pledging £120 million of aid for more than 650,000 Sudanese people. However, effective delivery hinges on safe access, currently impeded by continued violence.”
As the crisis deepens, both public figures and concerned citizens alike continue to put pressure on the government, underscoring the urgent need for international leadership and the preservation of humanitarian channels. The coming weeks will show whether this unified campaign prompts the decisive action so desperately needed in Sudan.