Josep Lluis Trapero, the head of the regional police force the Mossos d’Esquadra, said in a news conference that the rampage was designed “to kill as many people as possible”.

And Islamic State have since claimed responsibility for the attack, reportedly boasting on a website that: “Terror is filling the crusaders’ hearts in the Land of Andalusia.”

Working through the flood of information and emotional appeals for missing persons in the immediate aftermath, and the heartbreaking stories that follow later, the urge to help in some way is a natural impulse, but it can be confusing to know what will actually make a difference.

Below, we’ve listed the ways you can support the victims, survivors and investigation.

Anyone with concerns for the safety of loved ones in Barcelona are being asked to contact the Consular Assistance team on 01-4082000.

How you can help those caught up in the Barcelona attack