On Saturday 11 September, Sir David Amess attended a summer fete at Leigh Road Baptist Church as part of the Government’s Community Sponsorship project which supports local people in helping refugees settle into communities.

Local volunteers in Southend are using this project to support a Syrian family settle into Southend and the fete was just one of the fund-raising efforts to make this happen. The volunteers will help the Syrian family become self-sufficient by meeting them at the airport, befriending them so they settle into Southend, helping them learn English, assisting them with gaining employment and ensuring they have access to medical and other local services.

After the event, Sir David said “it is inspiring to see the wonderful efforts of our local volunteers help people who need it most. I am pleased that Southend is using the Government’s Community Sponsorship Scheme and helping a Syrian family settle into our town by giving them safety and the opportunity for employment and a new life”.