Holidays for Syrian refugees
Breaks are ‘the single most important factor in their resettlement and rehabilitation’
Friends from Minehead Meeting organised holidays for five Syrian refugee families this summer despite the pandemic. The Quaker-founded Minehead and District Refugee Support Group, led by members of Minehead Meeting, continued fundraising during lockdown for its programme of seaside days and mini-breaks through postal donations, virtual tea parties and a drive-by donation point.
Jenny Gateau, from Minehead Meeting, told the Friend: ‘Despite the current difficulties, five Syrian families, one by one, have been able to enjoy self-catering apartments right by the beach during August. Socially distancing friends have been able to meet up with them. For at least three of the families, this is the first time they have ever had a family holiday with their children. Fine weather and warm sea added to the immense enjoyment. One mother said: “I feel like I am in a dream.”’
Chris Waddilove, from Taunton Welcomes Refugees, described these breaks as ‘the single most important factor in their resettlement and rehabilitation’.
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