World Jewish Relief has received a European Union grant of more than £1 million to support resettled Syrian refugees in finding employment and integrating into British society.

The Amif (Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund) award is for £1.13 million over two years. The London-based charity will help 400 refugees towards employment in Coventry and across Yorkshire, working with local partner organisations.

WJR’s specialist training and employment programme tailors support towards individual situations with a package which can include English language classes, work experience and ensuring that clients have the requisite qualifications.

WJR chief executive Paul Anticoni said that for many refugees, finding employment was difficult “as the cultural differences they have to overcome are huge.

“This grant will allow us to provide intensive, personal support which will enable them to ultimately join the workforce and integrate into British society.

“The Syrian refugee community have undertaken a journey and a struggle which mirrors that of our own community. Many have survived conflict, been through significant trauma and are now beginning to thrive in a new, safe environment.

“They can and will make a similarly positive contribution to British society to that of the Jewish community.”

He added that the WJR project was “a powerful signal that British Jewry is outward-looking, committed to supporting people in need from all backgrounds”.

The award of the grant coincides with the third anniversary of former Prime Minister David Cameron’s announcement that 20,000 resettled Syrian refugees would be allowed into the UK under the Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme.