UP to £350,000 will be spent helping Syrian refugees to resettle in Dudley.

Dudley Council has already welcomed six families to the borough and has agreed to help a further 14 over a five year period.

To assist with the commitment, a four-year contract - valued at between £100,000 and £350,000 - was put out to tender by the authority, seeking a provider to help the refugees to learn English and adjust to their new surroundings.

Bids closed on Tuesday (March 13) and the contract is due to start on April 3.

Councillor Laura Taylor, Dudley's cabinet member for housing, said: “These are some of the most vulnerable people you can imagine who need help and support.

"They come to this borough with nothing having been in camps on the Syrian borders, and need intensive support to resettle, learn the language, and integrate into the local community."

She continued: "This contract will bring in a range of specialist language and resettlement services, including linking people with established voluntary and community groups.

"Although all of the money is provided by the government, this is more about ensuring we offer a helping hand to those who need it most.

"Black Country people pride themselves on being warm and welcoming, something we should continue to be proud of.”