THE district council which covers Studley and Alcester has stepped up to the plate and pledged to offer support to the current refugee crisis following contact from concerned residents.

Stratford District Council received calls and messages through social media from members of the public asking how they and the council can help.

At a cabinet meeting, on Monday September 7, councillors agreed to create a collection centre for charitable gifts and help, use resources to support government initiatives, provide an information sheet for those keen to help and signpost those who may be able to accommodate any refugee families and empty accommodation.

Council leader Chris Saint said: “Stratford District is ready to play its part in any nationally agreed and co-ordinated approach to refugees as well as formulating its own response.

“District residents are keen to do all they can to help support these people – collect charitable gifts, hold charity collections and even offer rooms in their homes.

“We will do our best to help co-ordinate all of this along with other partners and the West Midlands Strategic Migration Partnership so we can understand what is needed in terms of support and the provision of public services in order to deliver an effective and co-ordinated response.”