FAMILIES of refugees from war-torn Syria have been rebuilding their lives in Wiltshire over the last year and a half.

Since the first group arrived from the Middle-Eastern country in December 2015, 75 further refugees have been welcomed into communities across the county.

Wiltshire Council has worked with partners including the police, health and social services and the Department for Work and Pensions to ensure the refugees have everything they need to settle into a new life in the UK.

Baroness Scott, leader of Wiltshire Council said: “Since we welcomed the first families, we have always wanted to ensure they can settle into Wiltshire, become independent and really contribute to their community. I’m so please we have so many great examples of how our hard working families are making a real difference and making their home in Wiltshire.”

Ali moved to Wiltshire in December 2015 with his wife Abeer and young son. He is now working part time in a restaurant but also spends time as a volunteer at Wiltshire College in the IT department as well as helping other Syrian refugee families.

He explained: “When I first arrived it was very difficult for us as we didn’t know anyone. But now it’s much easier as my language has improved. Being able to drive has also made a huge difference and we can be independent now.”

Other families settling in well include Loay who lives with his wife Salam and two children. He was also one of the first refugees to arrive with his family in Wiltshire and carries out voluntary work for the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service.

Former chef and baker Mohammad recently passed a food safety in catering award at The Cathedral School in Salisbury.

He said: ““I am so pleased and proud to receive this qualification which will help me in my future career in the UK. I worked as a chef and baker for many years and I would like to go back to this work as soon as I can. This has given me the confidence I need and it has also made my mother very proud which makes me very happy.”