Who are we?
Ummah Hands was established in the UK in 2015 by community leaders from 17 Islamic organizations in response to the drought in the Horn of Africa.
We are a faith-based British international charity that provides help to people who are victims of natural disasters or conflict, or suffering from poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, discrimination, homelessness, debt, unemployment, injustice, deprivation, or lack of skills and economic opportunities.
View our appeals
What we do
We develop long-term development projects aimed at providing sustainable living for poor communities and survivors of natural disasters, as well as offering emergency relief. We fill many niches and give special emphasis to capacity building, economic empowerment, education, and improving child and women’s health.
About our work & values
We work in all parts of the globe through field offices and trusted partners, in consultation with stakeholders and beneficiaries.
- Compassion and justice (Ru’ufun and ‘Adl) in all of our actions
- Accountability and transparency (Muhasabah and Shafafyah) to all of our stakeholders, especially the communities we work with
- Action with quality (Amal m’a Jawadah) – our programmes reflect and fill gaps identified by the communities we serve, with longer-term actions based on need and capacity
- Respect for rights, dignity and equal opportunity (Karamah and Sawaseyah) of all peoples
- Empowerment (Tamkeen) of communities and individuals to reach their potential
Vision & Ethos
The Holy Qur’an describes a “godly” person as someone “giving a rightful share of their wealth to the beggar and the deprived” (51:19); while Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) reminds us: “Every good act is charity; and the person who guides others to a good act is as the one who did it; and, assuredly, God loves the act of aiding the distressed!” (al-Bayhaqi). The Prophet also teaches: “Love for humanity what you love for yourself!” (al-Bukhari).
Whosoever saves a life, it is as if they have saved the lives of all humankind — (Qur’an 5:32)
The ethos of Ummah Hands is rooted in these teachings: a belief that providing relief and aid to others is central to one’s humanity. This can, and is, performed by those of all faiths and none.