Host families help unaccompanied asylum-seeking young people through the Supported Carers Service of Family Connections.

As well as a safe living environment, they also help them develop skills for independent living as they transition into adulthood.

They receive regular support from a designated social worker, while emergency support outside regular hours is also on hand. Financial assistance is given through a weekly allowance of £270 per young person every two weeks.

Training is provided regularly, and Family Connections supplies necessary equipment such as furniture and bedding.

One person who has extensive experience of hosting young asylum-seekers is Gill Seth, who said: “I would encourage anyone who is thinking about it, to go for it – it is the best thing I have ever done. Of course, at times it is hard and challenging and you wonder why you got involved in it, but there are so many other times that are wonderful and you know exactly why you are doing it.

“After I hosted my first asylum seeker, I was delighted to be able to take on more. Knowing the life that these young people have had, and then seeing them in their future, especially when they have moved on and have lives of their own, is the most wonderful feeling in the world, and one you could never understand unless you experience it yourself.”

Councillor Margaret Walker, the council’s Chair of Social Work Resources, said: “Scots have always been known for extending a ready welcome, and especially to those who are most in need – and I know the people of South Lanarkshire are a perfect example of that. It is in our nature, and these young people, who are seeking a new home and a haven from all they have endured, could not have found a better place to set down new roots.”

Professor Soumen Sengupta, Director of Health and Social Care for South Lanarkshire, said: “These young people have come here to find refuge in a life we take for granted, and everyone I have met who has helped them has said it has been fulfilling and a privilege do so. I would encourage anyone who is interested in becoming a host family to contact us to find out more.”

Further information is available online, where details of how to apply can also be found.