In response to generous offers of support from Staffordshire people, a JustGiving page has been launched by Staffordshire County Council for recently arrived Afghan evacuees.

A large number of Afghan families were this week placed in short-term accommodation in Staffordshire by the Home Office, until they are offered permanent homes around the country.

Local public services including councils and the NHS are supporting these families with health, education and other needs, and have also been inundated with offers of support from the community.

The JustGiving page has been set up in partnership with local charity the Community Foundation for Staffordshire, to take donations that will be used to buy clothes, children's toys and other essential items.

Public agencies are kindly asking people not to donate clothes, toys or other items themselves.

Alan White, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: "Here in Staffordshire, we are doing our bit to welcome and support Afghan evacuees following tragic recent events in their homeland. Local councils have already committed to support around 20 families in the county.

"The Government has also placed a number of families in temporary accommodation. In most cases these are people forced to flee their homes with only the possessions they could carry.

"So, we are hugely grateful for the offers of help. Every penny donated will go to those who need it most."

Steve Adams, Chief Executive at the Community Foundation for Staffordshire, said: "It is heartening to see people offer support to those most vulnerable, particularly when they have had to leave their homes with nothing. We're very pleased to be working with Staffordshire County Council to assist with such a worthy cause."

At the time of writing, over £500 has been raised so far.

To donate, click here.