Barnet has helped to resettle 37 Syrian refugees fleeing danger in the home country last year.

In total, 5,500 people escaping conflict in the Middle East have been resettled in the UK by the vulnerable persons resettlement (VPR) scheme, with a view to resettle 20,000 by 2020.

The government has thanked Barnet for its efforts as a borough to contribute to the VPR project across 2016.

Barnet has been housing Syrian refugees with support from central government, which fully funds the first year of resettlement using the overseas aid budget.

The VPR scheme is voluntary, but so far more than 200 local authorities have housed refugees.

Immigration minister Robert Goodwill said: “The support of Barnet and other local authorities has been paramount in helping us resettle so many vulnerable people who have fled conflict.

“The humanitarian crisis in Syria is unprecedented which is why we decided to undertake one of the largest resettlement schemes in the UK’s history.

“The hard work will continue throughout this parliament as we provide those who have been traumatised and damaged by war with a safe environment and the chance to rebuild their lives.”

The VPR scheme seeks to provide accommodation for refugees while also assisting with integration into the local community and helps Syrian families improve their English to find work and independence.

In addition to resettling 23,000 refugees, the government is the second largest donor in humanitarian assistance, pledging £2.3 billion in aid to Syria and neighbouring countries.

The government also provides support for vulnerable children fleeing conflict and danger, providing refuge or other forms of leave to more than 8,000 children.