Published: 9:19 AM April 5, 2019 Updated: 6:03 PM September 17, 2020

Scotland's first minister has written to EU citizens living in Scotland that 'we want you to stay'.

In her open letter, which was made available in several different languages, Nicola Sturgeon wrote that the hardest part of Brexit had been meeting people from the EU who have no certainty over whether they will be able to stay in the country.

Shen said: 'As EU citizens in the UK, you have had to endure years of careless indecision on what the future holds for your lives, your careers and your families.

'Many of you have been living in Scotland for several years and have built your lives and raised your families here.

'The hardest part of dealing with Brexit has been meeting EU citizens across Scotland, who want to stay here but who do not know what steps they need to take and whether their rights will be secured.'

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She added: 'The closer we move towards the UK's exit from the European Union, the more real and substantial reassurances about your rights and position in this country you need.

'As the first minister of Scotland, I want to thank you for the contribution you make to Scotland.

'I am proud to say this is your home, you are welcome here and we want you to stay.'

Sturgeon has announced that the Scottish government has established a Stay in Scotland package for EU citizens to help them remain in the country.

The package includes a £250,000 pledge for community-based support across Scotland, the establishment of a support and advice service for EU citizens who have more complex needs or particular challenges and a toolkit for employers, including posters, factsheets, digital content and guides directing EU citizens to further guidance.