February Updates

Discover our month of science and theatre, and hear our perspective on new hostile policies. What can you do?

This month, we've facilitated 22.5 hours of play across 12 sessions, working with at least 31 children.

Science, Theatre & About Me!

This month, we explored the wonderful world of science - making crinkly toilet paper robots and enjoying a robot-themed obstacle course. We were also delighted to be joined by Ambessa Play, who showed us how to make our own flashlights! We then had a blast with some dress up and acting as we delved into all things theatre, before rounding off the month with some self-portraits - both sketched and sculpted - as we discovered 'About Me'.

Top left: two princesses enjoying dress up! Top right: a beautiful self portrait, with bean bags to weigh down the paper. Bottom left: getting technical with our Ambessa Play flashlights. Bottom right: a friendly toilet-paper robot - complete with lots of different textures.

Click the button below to read our Activities Report in full:

Activities Report

Advocacy Updates

The announcement of the UK Government's Illegal Migration Bill has dominated headlines in recent weeks. This Bill seeks to strip the right to seek asylum from those fleeing war, conflict and persecution and introduces powers to indefinitely detain those forced to cross the channel without appeal. Safe routes to the UK are not accessible for the majority of those who need them, leaving people no choice but to make this journey. We are deeply concerned about this bill, and the impact it will have on the communities we work with.

 

If you'd like to learn more, keep an eye on our Instagram and check out the resources at the link below. If you're UK based, please consider writing to your MP - it doesn't take long, but every voice counts!

Resources & Take Action Guides

We're updating this regularly for both people in the UK, France and elsewhere - so keep checking back! And if you come across useful resources, let us know - drop us an email on advocacy@project-play.org.

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The devastating news that at least 62 people were killed off the coast of Italy came less than four days after the Italian Government announced new measures restricting the operation of sea rescue charities. We stand in solidarity with all those forced to risk their lives seeking safety, and with all those who have lost friends, family and loved ones on borders. This is a stark reminder of the consequences of hostile border policies - these are human lives, not numbers.

 

In northern France, a number of concerning security incidents, including a chlorine gas leak close to people's living sites, were coupled with an increase in eviction operations in Grande-Synthe. Click below to read our observations in full:

Advocacy Infographics

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As members of Calais Appeal, we were partners in Collective Aid's 'New Year, Old Policies' campaign. Seeking to bring the voices of people on the move to those who create and uphold hostile policies seems ever more relevant in the wake of the news in the UK, France, and elsewhere in Europe. If you'd like to learn more, read our Joint Statement. And if you'd like to get involved, the posters are still available for printing and sharing!

New Year, Old Policies

Donate and Fundraise

 

We rely on donations to run our service, and any amount, no matter how big or small, makes a difference. If you're able to support us, please consider doing so.

 

If you fancy a challenge in 2023, why not raise some funds for Project Play in the process? We'd love to support you with your fundraiser. Email fundraising@project-play.org.

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Engage

 

We advocate for children’s rights and strive to draw attention to the abuses taking place in northern France. Help us raise awareness by following us on social media, engaging with our partners at Calais Appeal, and sharing our posts.

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Our service is run entirely by volunteers who have relevant skills, experience and dedication to supporting young people. If you're passionate about every child's right to play, have experience working with children, and can commit two months to work with us, we'd love to hear from you:

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