AN overwhelming show of support, kindness and generosity has been shown as Bridport as the local community continues to help settle Ukrainian and other refugees in the area.

Bridport and West Bay is currently home to an estimated 50 refugees, as a result of the efforts of the Bridport Refugee Support Campaign, and the subsequent welcome offered by local residents under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.

With limited state help available, Bridport Town Council has paid tribute to community groups, volunteers, other local organisations, and businesses for stepping up to help out.

Local support available to newly arrived refugees includes:

• A volunteer-run clothes bank

• Free bus travel on First Bus services

• Free swim sessions provided by Bridport Leisure Centre

• Weekly social and information sessions for Ukrainian guests, organised by local volunteers with the help of the Quakers

• Free English language tutoring

• Volunteer-supported social activities

• A community hardship fund for refugees in acute financial need, administered by the parish church

• Dedicated social media groups for hosts and guests to share information and requests for help

• Advice and support from Bridport Citizens Advice

• Volunteer transport

Town clerk Will Austin said “As a resident I know only too well what a generous community I live in, but the welcome and support people have given to refugees is absolutely astonishing. Town councillors were clear with me that they wanted the council to play its part in coordinating support, and we’re pleased to have contributed with funding, by acting as the community contact point, and arranging the free bus travel and swimming sessions, but the real credit goes to the wider community for ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for these most vulnerable people, who have fled war and travelled a continent to settle in Bridport.

"It’s notable that this support started before the war in Ukraine, with the incredible work of the Bridport Refugee Support Campaign in settling a refugee family from another country. Inspired by their work, the whole community has now wrapped its arms around Ukrainian refugees in Bridport and the surrounding area.

"I can’t say how humbled I am by the response.”