Empathise
Help children grasp what being a refugee might be like, and what essential things they would need if they had to leave home suddenly. Use Christian Aid’s ‘refugee crisis’ assembly materials as a starting point. It can be found at learn. christianaid.org.uk (suitable for both church groups and school settings).
Find out more
The Newsround pages on CBBC provide a great short video explaining what is happening in Syria, which can be shared in small groups. There are plenty of detailed opinions and timelines available if you want to get into the deeper complexities of migration for older children.
Show solidarity by letting refugees know that you support them
Your group can ‘welcome a refugee’ by leaving a message online with Refugee Action. This will be displayed for refugees to see when they use the charity’s advice services.
Fundraise
Most major international charities have funds set up to help refugees in Europe and beyond. Hold a bake sale or sponsored event, or encourage children to put a small part of their pocket money to one side. You could also get involved with Premier Youthwork’s #LoveCalais campaign (on the next page).
Campaign
More than 2,000 people have died in the Mediterranean this year, trying to reach safety. Refugee Action is asking for a photograph of a flower to represent each person. Get your children to take photos and post them using #2000flowers.
Pray
The crisis can be overwhelming to pray about. Focusing on specifics is helpful: individuals receiving food and shelter; people’s safety while travelling; thinking about how it would feel to leave your home, and praying about those feelings. For older children, you can also pray about the causes of conflict, which are leading to mass migration: Tearfund, Christian Aid and Cafod all have excellent resources
Anne Phipps is a charity consultant, having previously worked for Christian Aid for ten years
