29th January 2021 - Fire in Napier Barracks asylum camp, Folkestone UK

This afternoon, a fire broke out in one of the buildings that is currently being used to house asylum seekers in Napier barracks. 

Those stuck there, are seeking asylum. They are not criminals, they are fathers, brothers, sons and husbands exercising their right to claim asylum and yet are bing held in what is effectively a detention camp. Yesterday, all those not transferred to a hotel in light of the ongoing covid outbreak, were informed that they would be remaining in the camp for an unknown period of time, unable to leave and without the possibility of transfer. 

Priti Patel has today blamed those in the camp for this fire. She does not know who started it, there is currently no clarity is yet know about how the fire started. To show blatant disregard for fact, and to add fuel to ever growing plague of racism and racism towards people seeking refuge is insidious and dangerous. 

What we do know this is:

Over 300 men are being held in the camp, at risk of contracting covid as there continue to be no measures taken to protect them, allowing the virus to spread freely. This has now been the case for 3 week.

We have heard repeated reports of self harm and there have been a number of suicide attempts, none of these individuals have received meaningful medical care or support.

Peoples mental and physical health is deteriorating rapidly, with every individual we and other organisations have spoken to showing a sharp decline in their well-being. 

Access to medical care is extremely limited, with only one nurse and access to a doctor only possible after speaking with camp management.

These are the same camp staff, who have repeatedly threatened people who raise issues around food, covid, healthcare or living conditions. They have also assaulted people.

Many of those inside Napier barracks are survivors of torture and trafficking, conflict and exploitation. They are being subjected to cruel and inhuman treatment and they are currently being prevented from accessing the most basic of rights. 

This camp and the camps of Penally and Coltishall must close to prevent any further harm to those held there. #closethebarracks #wearewitnesses