A CHARITY which offers support to refugees has been honoured with an award for its services in the town.

Darlington Assistance for Refugees (DAR) was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from Darlington Lions Club.

The certificate, presented by last year’s president of Lion Club Jenny Lumely, was awarded in recognition of the work DAR has done in enabling asylum seekers and refugees to find homes, education and employment in Darlington.

Founded in 2015, DAR was formed in response to media coverage of children and parents dying in the sea while fleeing from war-torn areas.

The charity offers support to refugees and asylum-seekers in the area by offering practical assistance, befriending and language support, help and advice into employment, hosting social events and fundraising activities, encouraging involvement in the local community, holding drop in sessions and sending charitable donations to areas of need.

The charity also hosts support sessions for people in the town who are considering fostering children locally.

DAR received the award and has been commended by the Lions Clubs International as part of their centennial celebrations.

Fran Wood, Chair of DAR, said: “It is wonderful to meet amazing people from all around the world.

"They have shown great resilience and determination and remain positive despite their ordeals.

"We appreciate the recognition that we have been given by the Lions but the privilege really has been ours.”

Darlington Lions Club is part of the international organisation which pledges to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding.

The organisation currently fundraises for its nominated charity Heel and Toe, a Durham charity which helps children with cerebral palsy and other physical disabilities across the North-East through physiotherapy, speech and language and SEN tutoring.

The award was presented to DAR by Jenny Lumley on behalf of The Lions Clubs of the British Isles

Ms Lumley said: “Fran and her team has raised money, recruited volunteers and worked tirelessly for the benefit of the children and families who have come to Darlington from a life of trauma.”

More information about the charity and its fundraising events, support and services can be found at facebook.com/Darlington-Assistance-for-Refugees or it can be contacted on darhelp@outlook.com