Right now, hundreds of children are stuck in limbo at the UK border in northern France, living without access to shelter, food, water, sanitation or healthcare - all whilst facing routine state violence. They are denied access to education, to play and to a safe childhood.
As children across the world look forward to going back to school, the children we work with know exactly what they're missing. Many speak to us about wanting to go to school - asking for learning materials and talking about the friends they’ve left behind, and the friends they hope to make when they reach safety.
Since 2018, we’ve worked with over 9,000 children at the border - creating safe spaces for them to play, learn and grow. We cannot replace school, but in a context defined by hostility, we can provide small moments of relaxation and joy.
As politics grow more hostile, the border becomes more violent and more dangerous. Children are erased from the conversation, as safe routes to asylum close. Now more than ever, we need to stand together.
That’s why, this Back to School season, we’re asking you to stand with us - and make a small change in solidarity with children on the move.
The idea is simple: skip something small - your daily coffee, a takeaway, a meal out - and donate what you would have spent instead.
We know times are tight at the moment, but together, small change can add up to something real. Every donation, whatever the size, means more play and more moments of respite for more children.
