Range High campaign to help Syrian refugees

STAFF and students at Range High School have been moved by the recent Syrian refugee crisis and are planning a campaign to raise funds for Unicef as well as organising a collection of essential items to help the refugees in camps in Calais and Dunkirk. Sefton Central MP, Bill Esterson recently visited the school to talk to students in the school council about the Syrian refugee crisis and to launch the school's campaign to collect essential items for those in the camps. Nadine Jump, the school's Citizenship co-ordinator said: Recent images of families desperately risking their lives as they flee Syria to seek a place of safety have had a big impact upon the staff and students in the school. “As a Unicef Rights Respecting School, we have been looking at the rights of children around the world and considering how global issues affect the rights of others. ”Regardless of political debate about responsibilities and solutions, we want to make a practical difference to those in need.“ The school is holding a public collection for people in and around Formby to make donations, which will then be taken by a local charity directly to those who need them the most. Key items needed are, warm clothing for adults, children and babies: especially thermals, waterproofs, coats and jumpers. Hats, scarves and gloves, boots and shoes suitable for the winter months ahead. Blankets and sleeping bags, tents, toiletries and toys. MP Bill Esterson said he was delighted and proud to support Range High's efforts. He said: ”No one could have failed to be moved by the tragic scenes we have seen over recent months of terrified people fleeing their homes in fear of their lives and the lives of their families. Scenes made all the worse by images of young children losing their lives at sea and being washed up on tourist beaches after making the perilous journey to escape. “To flee your home and face such a dangerous voyage with a young family in tow is not a decision I would like to make, but these people have no choice because they face sure fire death if they stay. ”It is heart-wrenching to see the ongoing reports, but it is heart-warming to see the efforts that the pupils of Range High are making to help those refugees. “I was delighted to go along and speak to pupils and staff about their efforts to help those who are so desperately in need. ”I fully support Range High's campaign and I urge everyone in Formby to do the same and contribute to the collection.“ The public drop off point will be held at Range High School on Saturday, November 14 between 10am and 12am.