Chris Loder, MP for West Dorset, and Richard Drax, MP for South Dorset, visited Chickerell Camp on the 18th January to meet with Afghan citizens, their families and Ministry of Defence personnel. The parliamentarians were given a tour of the site by Major General James Senior. Temporary accommodation has been provided at Chickerell Camp for Afghans as part of the Resettlement and Assistance Policy (ARAP).
Chris Loder, MP for West Dorset, said: “Since December, we have welcomed a small number of very brave Afghan citizens and their families at Chickerell Camp with the help of the British Army. We are able to provide refuge for those who have supported the British Armed Forces in their work, but who would otherwise be at great risk in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. I’m humbled by their bravery and am pleased we can do our part in West Dorset to help.”
During the visit, the MPs pressed the Army to find an interim solution for the Chickerell cadet base that has been displaced as a result of us looking after our visitors. The Army has committed to look at alternative solutions.
Richard Drax, MP for South Dorset, said: “Having served in the army, I was not surprised to find the military once again doing an outstanding job, this time co-ordinating the care of Afghan families who have had to flee their country. I thanked them for bravely assisting our Armed Forces during the war out there, which has put their lives at risk. Along with Dorset Council and other organisations, the camp is well run and the Afghans themselves said they were happy and felt secure. I left the visit inspired by both those who are looking after the Afghans and of course the Afghans themselves.”
Kind donations, especially for the young children are warmly welcome. Warm clothes, coats, shoes and good condition toys can be taken to: Chickerell Town Council’s Offices, Willowbed Hall, 39 Putton Lane, Chickerell, DT3 4PB on weekdays, between 9:30am to 12 noon.
