Experiences of volunteering

2007-07-03

We first got involved with the Baca project as part of our DNA gap year (based at Emmanuel). Neither of us has ever worked with forced migrants before at this level and having this opportunity to look at this issue deeper has really been beneficial. It is not just what you hear in the media, there is so much more involved in the circumstances, which has made us realise that there is need in this area to help and care for these people.

We have been involved finding out about funding sources and looking at fundraising ideas for the project. We have also been on the training for Baca and that is where we learnt a lot about some of the possible situations forced migrants have come from. A really powerful part was trying to imagine being in a situation in this country where we wanted/needed to escape. It was really eye-opening to see the struggles and complications faced by those seeking refuge in this country, and the truths behind this and the statistics.

Meeting some of the guys has been a real privilege. They are all so amazing in their efforts to come into our culture, and they are great fun too, and it has been great to chat with them and learn about them individually.

Sarah and Joey
DNA 2006-2007