CARDIGAN’S family of Syrian refugees are settling happily into their new home after local charity Croeso Teifi welcomed them to the town in November. 

Spokesperson Vicky Moller revealed the parents had started learning English immediately and were making rapid progress.

“This term the young children started full-time school and are learning Welsh,” she added. “The parents are also volunteering every week.”

Croeso Teifi works with the Home Office and local authority on settling up to three Syrian refugee families in or near Cardigan.

The team stress they are aware of the importance of not competing with local needs for jobs, and minimising use of scant public services. 

The family was chosen by the United Nations organisation working with the Home Office with guidance from Ceredigion County Council.

Croeso Teifi let the Home Office know the skills the Cardigan area was lacking before the selection.

“The family say they love Wales, love Cardigan and love their home,” added Vicky. “The children go to school with a smile and come back practising their Welsh.

“Their father is looking forward to getting into full-time work; both parents are doing a lot of homework to learn English quickly and Dad has just joined Cardigan football team.

“They want to learn Welsh after learning English.

“They have been amazed at the open-hearted warmth of the welcome from Cardigan. The family are longing to stand on their own feet and bring benefits to the town as well as receiving them.”

Anyone interested in helping to resettle a second family should get in touch or attend the Croeso Teifi AGM which on 6 March or contact Vicky Moller on 07791 809810 for details.