Is there a future for CAYR?

The answer to this question is obviously “yes” as the activists and supporters involved with CAYR are a stubborn lot and they insist that the cruel treatment meted out to these children and young people must be resisted. At the same time, if real progress is going to be achieved the campaign to defend these children must extend. Lobbying to achieve change to unjust laws and regulation is an issue of the support of the many more than the enthusiasm of these few. It is about the decision makers being constantly approached by many different people rather than harangued be a handful of zealots. With that in mind CAYR is putting certain proposals forward to individual supporters as well as churches, unions and other groups.

1. Individuals or groups within each town or community should agree to the coordination of a local campaign to solicit the support of elected officials and public figures in their areas. This would include Councillors, MP’s, celebrities, successful business people, contestants in Big Brother or any other you can think of. Such support can be reported to CAYR for posting on the website and for use in national lobbying.

This work does not need the supervision of CAYR officers as long as the lobbying work focuses on the specific policy change sought by CAYR. Though a “branch” of CAYR could be created many sympathisers might find it equally easy to simply make this lobbying part of the tasks of your union, church or other organisation.

2. In each of your high streets it would be helpful for street stalls to be set-up informing the public about the unfair treatment of lone refugee children. This activity would fit very well with 1. above and the support of any available public figure could effectively be used on such an occasion. CAYR can provide literature electronically or make up some of your own. We would only ask that CAYR’s name and logo be used in relation to the specific CAYR policy goal.

CAYR has found that such stalls invariably receive a positive response from the public. Petitions and locally design leaflets have a very positive impact. Once again we would find it helpful to receive a report on these activities so that information can be provided on the website. Please feel free to contact CAYR for any advice or suggestions.

3. There are most certainly lone young refugees in your area who would value the fact that you are concerned about their welfare. If approached by such young people in the process of your campaigning you should offer what assistance you can.

If they are under 18 years they should have a social worker or some other support worker and you should make your involvement aware to such workers immediately. If they have no such support you should insist that social services provide such as they are statutorily required to. CAYR only lobbies in respect of the immigration status of such individuals and we would suggest that on all other matters you ensure that the relevant agency assists.

Involvement with CAYR does not entail a subscription of any sort though if you are working on this issue we would value being kept informed. If in the process of campaigning you are provided with any funds these should be applied locally to your campaign.

Please make contact now to confirm that you and your organisation will be building action affiliated to CAYR in your area.