Over recent weeks I have received hundreds of emails about the crisis in Syria. Many focused on the question of extending airstrikes against Daesh into Syria. Others were about the refugee crisis caused by the civil war and Daesh activity. But everyone was concerned for the Syrian people. People disagreed over whether military action would effectively relieve suffering, but at the heart of these emails was heartfelt compassion for those affected by the crisis. You can find out more about my vote on air strikes here, or on pressing Home Secretary Theresa May to do more about refugees here.

But I also wanted to offer practical help to the Syrian people and put people’s concerns into action. So I teamed up with Syria Relief to launch a Christmas Appeal for Refugees. Their work includes providing healthcare to tens of thousands of people, sponsoring schools, improving water and sanitation, supporting orphans and much more. It’s brilliant much-needed work in the midst of a nightmare.

Supporting a charity which is helping the Syrian people will not end the crisis, but it will make a difference.

It would be great if you could donate something to my Christmas Appeal for Syrian Refugees here.

I have set a target of £5,000, but want to raise even more. Do help if you can.