Thursday September 10th 2015
Christine Grahame MSP writes about the refugee crisis:
“I, like everyone else, have been watching the refugee situation very closely and have been touched by the plight of our fellow human beings who are being forced, not only from their homes but from their countries.
I am urging Midlothian and Scottish Borders Councils to look closely at what they can provide by the way of accommodation locally and to liaise with the City of Edinburgh Council. I understand the council in Edinburgh is already involved with the UK Government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme which allows them to welcome a number of families from Syria, all of whom have been identified as being in the utmost need by the United Nations. I would encourage the councils in my constituency to also sign up to the scheme if they haven’t already done so.
“The Scottish Government is providing initial funding of £1M which is being made available to co-ordinate Scotland’s response to the refugee crisis.
“I would encourage the councils to look at what they can provide by the way of accommodation locally and again liaise with City of Edinburgh.
Also I understand that the refugees need, of all things, suitable footwear and encourage local authorities to liaise with agencies in the field as to what footwear is required and then set up collection points.
“There are several ways constituents can help and I would also encourage them to do so if they can. They can put their name to a petition, attend a vigil, get involved or make a donation. Details below.”
Sign the petition to demand action from the UK government:
Other events will be taking place across the country. Facebook is often the best place to get up to date information.
There are many national and local initiatives being established. Scotland Supporting Refugees are a group of volunteers raising awareness and campaigning for action. Many cities, towns and villages have set up local groups. Once again Facebook is the best place to find out details of what is going on in your area.
Make a financial donation to a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that is doing related humanitarian work overseas. These include:
