Residents in Ceredigion are being urged to come forward to help resettle refugees into the county.

Property owners with private rental accommodations may have the capacity to aid in this mission, as Ceredigion Council is seeking accommodation for families escaping conflict in their homelands.

Countries of origin include Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine.

The Council upholds local housing allowance rates when aiding families with refugee status, such families have the ability to claim benefits for rent, similar to all UK families.

At present, more than 80 Ukrainian and Syrian families, in addition to a handful of Afghan families, have made Ceredigion their home since 2015.

These families have well-adapted to the community and partake in local events, with children becoming active members of the school community. They also attend English and Welsh lessons organised by Coleg Ceredigion.

Ceredigion Council utilises funds from the Home Office and Welsh Government for supporting integration of refugee children.

Initiatives like gymnastics sessions, leisure centre passes and music lessons have been implemented.

Refugee adults have been given aid to find local employment.

The Council’s Refugee Resettlement Team organises quarterly events to promote communal bonding and wellbeing.

The most recent event was held at Aberystwyth University in December, with the aim of promoting social connections and wellbeing.

Councillor Bryan Davies, leader of Ceredigion County Council, said: "Ceredigion has been a place of sanctuary for families fleeing conflict since 2015.

"We can’t do it without the generosity of the people of Ceredigion who have been welcoming people into their communities.

"We are particularly grateful to landlords who have approached us with offers of accommodation."

Interested property owners wishing to join the Council’s Refugee Resettlement Programme, can reach the Refugee Resettlement Team by emailing clic@ceredigion.gov.uk or call 01545 570881.