Fifty Syrian refugees will be welcomed to Calderdale

Leader of Calderdale Council, Cllr Tim Swift said: “Over the past few days, most people have been moved by the images of the problems facing the refugees forced out of their homes by the war in Syria. That’s why Calderdale Council has agreed on a cross-party basis that we should be playing our part in helping.

“In Calderdale we have offered to take 50 Syrian refugees, which will be adults and families with children. We’re now making sure that all the necessary arrangements, such as housing and school places, are ready in time for their arrival over the coming months, so that they can settle quickly into their new life here.”

The council are also working with St Augustine’s Centre in Halifax, which is the main voluntary sector provider of support for refugees in Calderdale.

Mr Swift says the centre provides a welcoming and safe place for people, some of whom have been through unimaginable experiences, and offers them a lifeline as they begin to adjust to life in a new community.

“The support from local people has been overwhelming and we’re still being contacted by residents who want to help.”

The St Augustine’s Centre has launched a fundraising appeal to raise £10,000 by Christmas. You can find out more by following the hashtag #helpinghalifax on Twitter.

To donate to the St Augustine’s Centre appeal visit www.give.net/20171078 or to volunteer at the Centre contact them via email on [email protected].

For more information about the local response to the Syrian refugee crisis visit the Frequently Asked Questions on the Asylum seekers and refugees page of the Calderdale Council website.