Welcoming Syrian families to Stratford

It was standing room only when people in Stratford met last Wednesday 22 June to discuss how to give a positive welcome to the Syrian families who will come to the town later in the year as part of the national scheme to offer refuge to some of those who have fled the civil war in Syria.

The meeting heard from Carol Roberts of Stratford-on-Avon District Council, who outlined how local authorities across Warwickshire were working to set up arrangements to re-settle about a dozen families across the county this year subject to Home Office directives. She explained that Stratford would be taking 3-5 families, who would all be housed in Stratford-upon-Avon town – so that they are close to services and close to each other. The families will be housed in privately-rented accommodation, supported by Home Office funding, and the Council is working to ensure they have access to local schools and health services, as well as being able to take up jobs.

Cllr Robert Vaudry, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Infrastructure was also in attendance at the meeting said “There is an overwhelming desire to support these families which is testament to the welcoming nature of the community of Stratford district. The district council's priority is to secure a date for the arrival of these families".  

The meeting went on to discuss what local residents and community groups might do to help the families to settle in. There were a number of ideas about ways in which the families could be befriended and offered practical support. And it was agreed that it was also important to raise awareness more generally about Syria and the needs of those fleeing from its civil war.

Roger Matthews from Stratford Quakers, who helped to organise the meeting, said: “It was great to see such a large number of people – and such positive attitudes towards helping others. People put forward a number of ideas, and we agreed to set up a smaller group to work on the details of putting these ideas into practice. We will also be organising another general meeting to keep people up-to-date on developments – though next time we will go for a bigger venue!"

To find out more, or to discuss ways to help, contact Roger on 07792 855394.