The prime minster announced earlier this week that the government’s existing vulnerable persons relocation scheme would be used to manage people from Syria. He told MPs that resettlement of refugees would be funded in the first year through the government’s international aid budget, which can be used for this purpose according to international guidelines.
Following a meeting of the LGA’s asylum, migration and refugee task group, chair David Simmonds said there had been a huge response from both councils and the public to offer accommodation for vulnerable people caught up in the current refugee situation. Following this, the LGA is working with local authorities to ensure that we make best use of those coming forward, he added.
“We are currently in ongoing discussions with government and are calling for a long-term plan, which includes for how vulnerable children, families and adults will be supported as they move to the UK. Councils need a commitment from government to provide full funding to support individuals and families and the public services they will depend upon.
“Once we have details from government on when people will begin arriving in the UK, and what their individual circumstances may be, we can ensure that the support provided is tailored to their needs in the most appropriate areas.”
