Cash Hub by British Red Cross
09 September 2026
In response to widespread displacement caused by the escalation of hostilities in Ukraine, the Slovak Red Cross, together with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), implemented a rental assistance programme to provide safe and dignified shelter to those in need. To this end, the Netherlands Red Cross developed a Shelter Information Management Platform for the Slovak Red Cross to streamline data management and communicate with programme participants. Inspired by this success, the Slovak Red Cross has taken a significant leap by independently running their own data management system, beyond its original purpose. Supported by IFRC and the Netherlands Red Cross, the activities introduced during the regional emergency response are now shaping a sustainable, data-driven approach to the National Society’s programming.
How data management boosts locally led humanitarian action
Data management equips National Societies with the information needed to optimize response efforts. The Netherlands Red Cross’ approach to building data management capacities puts National Societies in the driving seat, strengthening their impact and ability to assist more people in less time without compromising data integrity. Open-source data management tool EspoCRM is a key enabler in this effort, offering a flexible solution tailored to context-specific needs. The Slovak Red Cross, now the official owner of their data management system, joins the ranks of National Societies fully in charge of managing their data for a wide range of programmes.
“When we launched the Shelter programme, EspoCRM was introduced to enhance monitoring and reporting capacities, followed by trainings for staff to use the system. This way, we established consistent data collection and reporting habits.”
Building capacities for the future
Based on the positive experience with the Shelter Information Management Platform, the Slovak Red Cross has recognized the value of expanding the tool to support future humanitarian initiatives beyond the Ukraine response. The National Society has transitioned to hosting and managing their own system – a major milestone on the journey to locally led action. To ensure a smooth transition, the Netherlands Red Cross supported the Slovak Red Cross in building staff capacities to navigate the system effectively. Today, the platform is seamlessly integrated into the National Society’s broader humanitarian programming, making its response capabilities future-proof.
“EspoCRM provides structured and systematized data, enabling us to make evidence-based decisions. We are now gradually scaling up its use to cover all our services, beyond emergency response.”
A model for other National Societies
The Slovak Red Cross’ ownership of this digital tool illustrates a shift from emergency response to a sustainable, localized system. Rather than relying on external data management support, the National Society has developed internal expertise to run programmes independently. Looking ahead, the Slovak Red Cross is committed to expand this unified, interconnected and data-driven humanitarian response system – setting an example for others looking to strengthen their data management capabilities. If your National Society is looking for support in building or improving its own data management system, we are here to help. Together, we can develop solutions that are easy to use, maintain, and adapt to your specific needs.
