We all know from watching the news and listening to the radio that people throughout the world are having their homes and lives destroyed by war, and it makes those of us living in safe places grateful that we don't have to deal with such terror and separation ourselves.

These global events can engender a real desire to take action, so for those of us who wish we could do something to make the world just that little bit fairer, here is a great place to start.

We are a group of local volunteers, working together to welcome a refugee family into our community. Our aim is to provide the type of friendship and practical support that anyone would hope to have if they were forced, under such circumstances, to start over in a new and unfamiliar place. The Government requires us to raise funds to help the family settle into their new home and to provide essential English lessons and interpreters.

All the money raised will go directly to help a family rebuild a life, where they can be a part and play a part in their new community.