The importance of reaching out

When I talk to the refugees we help in the UK, they often say, ‘We have the support services, but you’ve actually made a difference by coming in person, by chatting to me one on one.’

That’s because they’ve made a connection with a volunteer. I got a message recently saying they’d really suffer if we weren’t around, because we make them feel like they’re appreciated in the UK. I think it’s the same in Calais – just that friendly human contact is important because many of them haven’t experienced it for a long time. A lot of Care4Calais’s work is the social side.

Often, they need a volunteer just to listen – it’s amazing what listening and being there for someone can do.

–  Katey, Care4Calais volunteer, London

A simple, friendly conversation can be a huge help to the mental health and self-esteem of refugees, and our volunteers provide it everyday. If you could help, connect with us at care4calais.org/get-involved/