‘Volunteering in Calais has completely changed what I want to do with my life’

A friend I made here from Kurdistan showed me pictures of his scarred back and told me about getting attacked in prison. He was so nonchalant about what he had been through and was so positive for the future. I can’t believe such young men are telling me these stories so casually.

I first came to Calais last year and I was so sad to leave. As soon as I was back in the UK, I planned my next trip so am here for a second time. Some of the friends I made last year have made the journey to the UK, which is amazing to hear.

Two friends I made are now living in London so I was able to see them when I was in the UK. They were two of the best people I’ve ever met, filled with so much light and joy. When I saw them in London it was the most incredible experience ever. They were so happy to be there and it felt like I could have been meeting up with any of my friends. Since seeing them, one of them has been moved into the Napier Barracks – and even now he’s being so positive about it.

Volunteering in Calais is a life-changing experience. Now I’ve seen firsthand what’s happening here, there’s no switching off from this. It’s completely changed what I want to do with my life. I’m applying for jobs in immigration and want to continue working with refugees in the UK when I’m home.

Hannah, volunteer.

To volunteer in Calais email [email protected]