[Oxford-medics] Calais callout

[sabot at riseup.net]

Hey,

Is anyone up for medicing with me at the migrants' camps in Calais? I've
already been for a bit but was planning on returning in the not too
distant future as medics are at the top of the wishlist. Others should def
go along if they can.

Basically, there are a load of ad hoc 'camps' and squats in and about
Calais made up of around 2000 migrants trying to get to the UK
clandestinely.

The situation there is pretty desperate - some long term issues like
scabies and impetigo, but also lots of other injuries sustained whilst
trying to get into lorries and shipping containers. Tear gas is also
another major issue. Living conditions are appalling - there's no running
water in all but one camp. There are lots of minors there too. There are
only grassroots groups giving support.

No Borders and other groups are setting up a more permanant presence
there. At one of the larger camps - that of the Afghan Pashtuns - most
people can speak a bit of English, but no french, so don't worry about
language issues. I think this is the same for other camps too.

One word of warning though is that you need to be really sensitive to the
situation there - most people I met were lovely but you have to be
prepared for some distrust or hostility.

More info:
http://calaismigrantsolidarity.wordpress.com/

Please get in touch off list if you want to know more about the deal in
Calais.

L&R
Sophx