Conditions at the military barracks are said to be poor with the local primary school doing the best it can with its unexpected influx of pupils. Ward councillor Simon Clifford (Lib Dem) has praised parents for raising concerns about the situation, asking for a better deal for the refugee pupils. “The current situation which sees our local school taking on extra pupils and responsibilities but get no extra funding is unfair and must change.
It is amazing to see local parents and the community come together to help out, fund raise and give donations, but it they shouldn’t need to. The new Government needs to have this high on its ‘to do’ list and provide financial support where it is most needed.” Portfolio holder for children’s services and education Clare Sutton (Green, Rodwell & Wyke) said many of the children at the camp had suffered ‘significant trauma and grief’ and were currently living at Chickerell, in what she described as "inadequate living conditions.
" “The local school has been incredibly inclusive and working very hard,” she said. On Friday a Major General who oversees the camp and other officials met with Dorset Council chief executive Matt Prosser and Executive director for children’s services, Theresa Leavy. Ms Leavy had pledged to lobby for more support, telling councillors: “I will campaign to ensure these young people and their families get the best support they can.
"I don’t think the camp is going anywhere, anytime soon. I think .
