B&NES Council says it is pleased to have already been able to offer assistance to refugees and is now working with partners to develop a package of support. Representatives have also been in discussion with Citizens UK, who have offered their services in relation to housing and resettlement.
With cross-party support in B&NES, the local Labour group has welcomed the progress being made in ensuring local communities can be a safe haven for those fleeing war zones. Speaking this week, Labour Group Leader, Cllr Robin Moss, said: “We know that B&NES officers have been working hard to ensure we have support in place, discussing with the Home Office (who are coordinating the UK response) about what is needed for vulnerable families, as well as individual children to have a secure place of refuge with us.
“Officers deserve our thanks for this work. We understand that some refugees have already arrived, but also appreciate that confidentiality and discretion is appropriate when looking at detail.
“Councillors from across the political spectrum have been meeting with officers to coordinate and review what is an evolving situation. As part of that process, Labour Councillors have been looking at three specific areas.
“Firstly, appropriate accommodation is a key requirement, as many extended family groups can be large, so suitable housing will be at a premium. We are suggesting that B&NES talks to the private sector, as well as social housing organisations, if necessary, setting up a bond/deposit guarantee scheme. We may also have to be innovative in how we use existing buildings with conversion work for housing use.
“Secondly, many refugees will arrive with skills and experience they want to share. We believe Central Government should lift the current ban on asylum seekers working and that local schools, colleges and training providers should be looking at what they can offer.
“Finally, there has been a heartening response from local residents, offering help and support, as well as wanting to know what is being planned, particularly what B&NES Council is currently doing. We should look to meet with local organisations, community and faith groups, so that we all understand what is being offered, what could be offered and to coordinate work currently taking place.
“It will almost certainly be the case that some of the help currently being offered, such as residents’ spare rooms, may not be appropriate just now, but may well be needed.
“It is important that as well as looking at what we can offer immediately, we need to think about the future and what support needs to be in place. A key part of that will be working with groups and individuals throughout the community, who have offered to help, as well as making sure that we keep everyone up-to-date with what is happening.”
The Council is grateful for all the positive messages from the public and encourages those who wish to do so, to support the Syria Crisis Appeal via the British Red Cross.