South Hams District Council’s Executive has shown its support for the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme and has recommended that the District Council join the scheme.
This decision could lead to the equivalent of six Syrian families or households coming to live in the South Hams.
The Government has invited local authorities to participate in the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme. This is a voluntary scheme that South Hams Executive has recommended for Council support.
Leader of South Hams District Council, Councillor John Tucker said: “We have always said that we were willing to help settle refugees in our area and have all along been working with our partners. We wanted to ensure any offer we were able to make would be as robust and secure as possible without impacting adversely on the housing needs of local people. We now feel confident that any offer we may be able to make to the Home Office addresses all these concerns. We look forward to welcoming refugees in the South Hams.”
The Government would provide funding to cover the local costs of housing and the Home Office has indicated it will look to place refugees across the country, it has been confirmed funding for the first 5 years so there will be no direct cost to the Local Authority.
If you’d like to know more, or have a property that may be suitable, please contact isabel.blake@swdevon.gov.uk
