Moving to a new country is scary for any teenager, never mind those who are fleeing disaster in their homeland.

Volunteering Matters is working to make this transition easier for newcomers aged between 16 and 18 in Ipswich by helping them learn English language and empowering them to understand life in the UK.

Thanks to a £5,000 grant from the Labour group at Suffolk County Council (SCC), the study programme will now be expanded to allow the students to experience activities in the community so they can find new interests and hobbies.

Stephen Skeet, regional manager of Volunteering Matters, said: “Many of our young people have experienced great trauma in their lives or are experiencing great barriers to being able to achieve their potential. They all possess resounding strength and resilience, however, and we work with them to understand their individual talents and play a full role in the community.”

Mandy Gaylard, of SCC, said the project offered a “deeply needed” service to Ipswich at a time when tax-funded provision was being withdrawn.

She added: “Their new study programme has already made a huge difference in the lives and prospects of many young refugees.

“It has helped them to adapt to the Ipswich community, and provided education and practical skills that will enable them to move forward, live good lives and give back to Ipswich, which they now call home.”