New website channels Scottish support for refugees

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-34257592

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A new website has been set up to help co-ordinate Scotland's response to the refugee crisis.

Scotlandwelcomesrefugees.scot invites people to donate "time, skills, goods, accommodation or other practical help to refugees arriving in Scotland".

The online "information hub" also provides links to charities working with refugees and advice on hosting fundraising events.

It was set up by the Scottish Refugee Council and Scottish government.

Minister for Europe and International Development Humza Yousaf said: "Scotland is firm in its commitment to helping the most vulnerable people in crisis and to accepting our fair share of whatever number of refugees the UK takes.

"The first minister has made it very clear that 1,000 refugees coming to Scotland should be seen as a minimum and very much an initial, immediate figure - it is not a cap or a limit, nor is it spread out over five years like the announcement made by the prime minister last week.

"Scotland is happy to take a 10% share of the total number that come to the UK and we again urge the UK government to do more and increase their numbers."

A taskforce on Scotland's response to the refugee crisis, bringing together ministers, councils and charities, has held its second meeting.

Mr Yousaf said: "Scotland's response has been amazing so far. There are people from all walks of life in different parts of Scotland wanting to do what they can to help.

"There are many groups and organisations already taking practical steps and we really welcome this enthusiasm and energy.

"This new website will provide an important addition in marshalling Scotland's efforts in our concerted and organised response to this refugee crisis."