The event, organised by Gloucestershire Police, will explain drink-drive laws and how to report crime, for example.

The Hate Crime Unit will outline what help is available to people who think their nationality has resulted in them becoming a victim of crime.

The forum will be held at Francis Close Hall in St Paul's on 8 February.

Police will tell the community about a language line which gives people who do not speak English access to an interpreter.

'Sizeable population'

Representatives of Prasa, a free newspaper for Polish people in the South West, will also be on hand to offer translation services.

"We're becoming more and more aware that we have a sizeable Polish population in Cheltenham," said Sergeant Andy Davies.

"To all intents and purposes, it's an invisible population but it's probably the largest minority group in the town and we need to engage with its people, see what their needs are and build up lines of communication."

Prasa editor Robert Granville said: "Crucially, it (the forum) will let them know they're on hand as a friendly and open service which they can approach for support and advice."