A new guide created to help workers from abroad settle into the UK is being launched by Multicultural UK.

The UK Guide for International Workers: Three Counties Edition will appeal to companies in Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire who employ international workers and need them to settle into the UK quickly and easily.

Miriam Roberts, director of Multicultural UK, said: "It contains a lot of practical and tourist information, from how to find accommodation to how to open a bank account." Ms Roberts, who has had success with writing similar guide books for international students in the UK, was prompted to write this edition after talking to workers coming into the UK.

She added: "In 2004, 48,493 work permits were approved in the health and medical sector alone in the UK, with this number set to rise in future years.

"There is a real need for support and guidance for these workers."

The guide, which is being launched on January 19 at Parklife Learning Zone, Cheltenham, is sponsored by Concordia, which provides seasonal harvest workers to more than 30 farms in the three counties area.

The guide is expected to be very popular with farms, factories and many industries that employ international workers.

Any company which would like to find out more about the guide is encouraged to visit the launch and contact Miriam Roberts on 01905 359342 for a formal invitation.