Q Radio has once again partnered with humanitarian organisation Concern Worldwide for its annual ‘camp-out’ campaign, which aims to show solidarity with those displaced by conflict.
The event invites people across Northern Ireland to spend one night sleeping outside to raise awareness, support and funds for the estimated 118 million people around the world who have been forced to flee their homes.
Speaking to The Irish News, Northern Ireland director of Concern Worldwide, Jackie Trainor, said the campaign comes at a time when children continue to be among those most affected by conflicts across Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine.
“One of the hardest meetings I have attended since taking up my role with Concern Worldwide was a recent session focusing on children affected by conflict,” she says.
“The testimonies shared by speakers who spoke passionately about Sudan, Gaza and beyond were powerful, courageous and incredibly difficult to hear.
“We heard the devastating realities facing children caught in conflicts they did not create, from children separated from their families while fleeing violence, to the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war, and the long-lasting trauma caused by fear, displacement, and loss.”
The number of people forcibly displaced around the world has doubled over the past decade and remains at an historic high.
Children are particularly vulnerable, facing increased risks of injury, malnutrition and disease, as well as the psychological impact of prolonged exposure to violence and instability.
“In Gaza, a tent has become a symbol not of childhood adventure, but of survival. It is a place where children sleep, eat, learn and play amid unimaginable uncertainty,” says Jackie.
While sleeping outdoors for one night cannot replicate the experiences of those forced to leave their homes, organisers hope the event will encourage people to reflect on the realities of displacement while raising money for Concern’s humanitarian work.
“Humanitarian aid can save lives, but children need more than survival. They need protection, education, stability and the chance to imagine a future,” Jackie explains.
“Above all, they need peace.”
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Founded in Ireland in 1968, Concern Worldwide works to tackle extreme poverty and respond to humanitarian emergencies.
Last year, the organisation reached 23 million people across 27 of the world’s most fragile countries.
Money raised through the Camp Out will help provide food, shelter, healthcare and other life-saving support to families affected by displacement, hunger, conflict and climate emergencies.
Q Radio will support the campaign with a roadshow hosted by drivetime presenter and Concern Worldwide ambassador Ibe Sesay.
“I’m really proud to be supporting Camp Out for Concern again this year,” says Ibe.
“It’s easy to take having a safe place to sleep for granted, but for millions of families around the world, that’s no longer a reality.
“This event is a simple way for people here in Northern Ireland to come together, have a great evening with family and friends and make a genuine difference to those who need it most.
“I’ll be hosting the Q Radio Roadshow from 5pm, so there’ll be plenty of music, entertainment and fun before we all come together for a powerful moment of solidarity under the stars.
“Every tent pitched and every pound raised will help provide hope and vital support to families facing unimaginable circumstances.”
Jackie hopes people across Northern Ireland will once again support the campaign and stand alongside children and families affected by conflict.
“We all have a role to play in keeping children’s rights visible, advocating for the protection of civilians and pushing for an end to conflicts that rob children of their childhood,” she adds.
“Every child, everywhere, deserves the chance not just to survive, but to thrive.”
Camp Out For Concern takes place at Stormont Estate, Belfast, on Saturday, August 8. Tent pitches cost £25, with spaces limited. Tents can be pitched from 4pm before the event begins at 5pm. Registration is available at concern.org.uk/campout.
