Projects in France
Urgent Action Needed: Report on Calais Refugee Camp Needs Assessment
HANDS International and MCEC Team Uncovers Dire Conditions
A joint team from HANDS International and MCEC, along with 15 dedicated volunteers, recently traveled to Calais, France, to assess the critical needs of refugees residing in the informal camp there.
This assessment aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the humanitarian situation and guide relief efforts, particularly as winter approaches. The findings highlight a desperate situation that requires immediate international attention.
Key Objectives:
Evaluate the current and future needs of refugees in the camp, nicknamed "the jungle."
Develop practical recommendations for addressing those needs.
Identify basic necessities to effectively respond to the ongoing crisis.
Alarming Findings:
Shelter:
Two inadequate shelter types were identified: flimsy plastic tents and poorly constructed wooden structures.
These shelters are not waterproof, weatherproof, or fit for human habitation, especially during harsh winter conditions.
The team predicts an increase in disease, mortality rates, and desperation to leave without proper shelter.
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH):
Only three inadequate water points were found, with contaminated water posing a serious health risk.
Sanitation facilities were insufficient and posed hygiene concerns.
Stagnant water pools were observed being used for washing and sanitation, further exacerbating the health risks.
Education:
No formal or informal education facilities were found for children or adults.
Refugees lacked access to basic writing materials, hindering communication and potentially hindering future opportunities.
Professionals risk losing skills due to a lack of ability to practice.
Health:
The team witnessed widespread unmet medical needs, including malnutrition, untreated injuries, and infectious diseases.
The lack of vaccinations within the camp population further magnifies the health risks.
Overcrowding increases the risk of disease transmission.
Psychological distress was evident among the refugees.
Medical services are limited to a single facility operating only during daylight hours on weekdays, with no emergency care or ambulance access.
Livelihood:
Refugees have no means to earn a living or regain their sense of dignity and empowerment.
Moving Forward:
HANDS International and MCEC identified a critical need for immediate improvements in hygiene and healthcare services.
Their joint response focuses on:
Establishing emergency medical services for weekends.
Improving WASH facilities and water quality.
Exploring the possibility of securing ambulance access for emergencies.
A Call to Action
The report paints a stark picture of the desperate situation facing refugees in Calais. These findings highlight the urgent need for international support to improve their living conditions and ensure their basic needs are met.