Civilians in war-torn Syria have been “let down” by international agencies designed to protect them, a scathing report marking the fourth anniversary of the conflict claims today.

Some 21 humanitarian and human rights organisations said the UN security council failed to alleviate the suffering of civilians in Syria amid intensifying conflict, with 2014 marking the bloodiest year since the war began.

Three security council resolutions adopted in 2014 demanded action to secure protection and assistance for civilians.

But despite this, humanitarian access to large parts of Syria has diminished and more people are being killed, displaced and are in need of help than ever before, according to the Failing Syria report.

Oxfam’s programme manager on Syria Andy Baker said: “The security council’s words now ring hollow.”