First Syrian refugee families arriving in Orkney

The first Syrian refugees to be housed in Orkney have arrived in the islands.

Two families, both with young children, have been housed in Kirkwall.

They had been living in refugee camps in the Middle East after being forced to leave their homes because of the conflict in Syria.

They arrived in the islands on Friday and are now settling into their new homes.

Frances Troup, Orkney Islands Council’s head of housing, said: “This is a big step for the families and everyone involved is keen to make sure they experience a warm welcome as they start newlives in acommunity that is very different to their own.

“It helps greatly that this is such a welcoming community.

“There’s been a tremendous response from organisations and individuals – all committed to ensuring that the parents and their children soon feel at home in Orkney.”

More than 20 local people have volunteered to help Orkney’s newest residents settle.

Fraser Devine, team leader for Voluntary Action Orkney said: “Some are Arabic speakers, some have spent time themselves in the Middle East, and others simply want to extend a helping hand as the families settle in.

“The volunteers will be assisting in a number of ways – helping the families in getting to know Orkney, find their way around, and become part of our local community.”

TheUKGovernment has made a commitment to resettle 20,000 people from refugee camps in communities across the UK by 2020.

In the north, Highland Council has agreed to house families in Alness and Kinlochleven, while Western Isles Council has taken in refugees in Stornoway.