Aberystwyth: Working in Partnership to Support Refugees

​Support work for the refugees is being provided by the British Red Cross, to help them to adjust and integrate in their new surroundings, and they also ensured a warm welcome upon their arrival.

This work is coordinated by the Task and Finish Group, set up by the Council and containing representatives from all relevant partner organisations, including Cantref, Tai Ceredigion, Mid Wales Housing, Hywel Dda University Health Board, Dyfed Powys Police, Aberystwyth University, University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, British Red Cross, Care Society, Public Health, CAVO, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and Aberystwyth Town Council.

Councillor Ellen ap Gwynn, Chairman of the Task and Finish Group, said: “The refugees have arrived safely in Aberystwyth, and are settling well in their new home town. Aberystwyth residents have been very welcoming, which I’m sure will be of great comfort to the refugees as they begin to integrate in the community and, on behalf of the Group, I would like to thank Aber residents for showing such compassion and generosity. Also, I would like to thank all of the partners who continue to cooperate so well in our efforts to support the refugees to the best of our ability.”

Denise John, locality manager at the British Red Cross in Ceredigion, said: “We’ve been very pleased with how everything has gone so far. Our staff welcomed the refugees when they arrived at the airport and transported them back to Aberystwyth last week.  We have been busy helping them with practical issues such as registering with a GP and signing tenancy agreements and also simple things like helping with their shopping.

“The families are settling into their homes very nicely and are incredibly grateful for the support they have received so far. English lessons will begin next week and the children will be starting at their new schools after the Christmas break.

“The Red Cross will continue to provide both practical and emotional support to the refugees as they settle into life in Wales. We are very proud to be working alongside Ceredigion County Council and other partner agencies to ensure those fleeing the violent conflict in Syria can find a place of safety in Aberystwyth.”