A number of people involved in similar community organisations in their areas joined the meeting.

Nicola David, chair of Ripon City of Sanctuary, which was established in 2015, was also present.

The sanctuary provides practical support and encouragement for two Syrian families who have resettled in Ripon.

Ms David said:

“It was a very encouraging meeting and we will do all we can to assist the Nidderdale group in achieving its goals, through sharing information and the experience that we have gained.

“Refugees are ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances and it is inspirational to see that even at a time of lockdown, communities are ready to help them.”

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There are approximately 80 million displaced people around the world, of which 26 million are refugees. The government initially agreed for up to 10,000 to be resettled in the UK.

Community sponsorship organisations have to prepare everything that might be needed for families to become self-sufficient members of their new community, as required in detailed plans set out by the Home Office.

This includes safeguarding, learning English, applying for relevant benefits, accessing medical help, schools, transport, finding work and having support from translators.

To obtain refugee status the families have already been closely vetted, entitling them to the same help and welfare as anyone else living in the UK. The community group needs to raise at least £9,000 to ensure additional needs are met.

The group has to have either charitable status or a partnership with an existing charity, such as Catholic Care Leeds, which takes ultimate responsibility for the agreement with the Home Office and provides experience, governance and safeguarding training and support.

Further information is available by contacting wrightpandh@gmail.com