CALAIS ­‐ STATUS REPORT SPRING 2017

Sadly, our Spring report on the situation in Northern France shows no signs of improvement to the refugee crisis on our doorstep. With summer so close, we are deeply concerned that the problem will only escalate once more as new arrivals make the perilous journey across the Mediterranean.

What does our report show?

• Families, plus many others, homeless with nowhere to go after the devastating fire at Dunkerque in April.
• At least 500 sleeping rough in the Calais region along, 150 of which are unaccompanied children.
• Three small camps providing inhumane conditions, hosting between 300-400 refugees in the Calais area.
• Living conditions far worse than in the former Calais ‘Jungle’ with no shelter, no sanitation and no cooking facilities.
• Scabies, fungal infections and gum disease at an all-time high – with little help.
• Since the UK Government halted the transfer of minors last year, there are now nearly 2,000 unaccompanied minors scattered around France – scared and highly vulnerable to traffickers.
• Refugees facing deportation to dangerous home environments.
• Threat of deportations to entry countries such as Italy and Greece, who are already heavily burdened with the refugee crisis.

What can be done?

We believe that the UK government should recognise the vital role it must play in a long-term solution to the refugee problem in Northern France. With the pre-election debates in full swing we urge you to raise these issues with those standing for election in your constituency. Despite the positive news this week that 130 more children will be brought to the UK under the Dubs Amendment, we need your help to continue to put pressure on the Government to take action.