Drop-in service opens to help refugees

The council has partnered with several organisations to provide a new drop-in service for refugees

Communities for work have arranged a weekly drop-in at St Athan community centre for the new Afghan families, and for the residents of St Athan community to help and encourage with work and training.

The service will accommodate new families that have moved to the area and invite people from the wider community to showcase what is available in the local area and help them with their resettlement queries.

Resettlement coordinator, Katherine Partridge said: “The families are doing well, most of the children are attending local schools with others are waiting for a start date. 

"Some of the older children have joined the Local Cricket Club and two of the “Dads” have found employment already."

The Leader and Chief Executive attended the service this week and spoke to refugees and local support groups. They received a warm welcome and were invited to talk with willing participants. 

Leader of the Council, Cllr Lis Burnett said: “This was a great opportunity to talk with refugees and the volunteering groups that provide such a worthwhile service for those that require assistance. 

“The Council are committed to help those seeking refuge from conflict and these drop-in centres are integral for providing the guidance and support they so desperately need.

"We hope more of these services are available throughout the Vale of Glamorgan in the future.”

There are several supportive services available at the centre including employment guidance and information on local clothes and food banks.

Those involved in the partnership include:

• Communities for Work Plus – Including the Refugee Employment Mentor;
• Celt Plus;
• Citizen's Advice Bureau;
• Careers Wales;
• Taff Housing Association; and 
• Race Equality First

Drop-ins will continue every Monday in St Athan.