COUNTY officials say they've received 'heart-warming' messages from Syrian refugee families, who want to help their new communities during the coronavirus outbreak.

Dorset Council has welcomed 82 refugee families from war-torn Syria as part of a national resettlement scheme.

These families, who are now living at nine separate locations across the county, want to give something back during these difficult times.

Council refugee resettlement programme officer Jenny Willoughby: said: “We are incredibly lucky to have an army of volunteers across Dorset who help Syrian refugees families to settle in to their new communities, make friends, go shopping, help with children, etc.

“And to see the Syrian families they once helped now want to give something back and help them in return is amazing.

“Many of our older volunteers will now be isolating or shielding – so the Syrian families offer of help is very welcome."

The refugee families want to help the most vulnerable Dorset residents in particular.

One of the refugees, Walid, said: "My family and I took refuge in this beautiful country. That is why I want to offer my services to help the community. I can help to deliver food and other essentials to vulnerable residents in my area.

“I strongly believe in the responsibility of citizens to help each other in crises.

"May God protect this country.”

The most recent Syrian refugee family arrived in Dorset on March 3. However, the resettlement programme has now been suspended due to the coronavirus.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Education, children and early help member at Dorset Council, said: "This is a wonderful example of how helping others pays off dividends to our communities later, with people coming together in this time of crisis.

"I think we all need a bit of this right now.”

Volunteers are needed across the county to help support the most vulnerable people during the crisis.

Cllr Parry added: “Many people will need extra support, like help with shopping, walking the dog, picking up prescriptions or just checking in with them to have a chat over the phone.

“We are encouraging people to join the growing band of brilliant volunteers, helping and supporting everyone across Dorset so that people can get through tough times together.”

Register with the Dorset Volunteering Centre if you want to help.

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