County council joins efforts to support Afghan refugees

Oxfordshire County Council is working with partners across the county and central government to help resettle and support those who are fleeing the rapidly escalating situation in Afghanistan.

The council is working with the city and district councils and other partners to find accommodation and identify empty housing stock suitable for rehousing families.

Once suitable accommodation has been secured, a wraparound support package for families will be put in place, including access to healthcare and education and support with employment and community integration.

The council’s social care teams will also be ready to respond – as was the case when Syrian refugees were accepted into the UK some years ago.

Councillor Liz Leffman, the leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “As has been very well publicised, the situation in Afghanistan has become acute in recent days and there is a clear requirement for authorities at local, regional and national level to respond quickly.

“At Oxfordshire County Council we will do all we can to support those in need. We already know that the people of Oxfordshire are keen to provide support as many have come forward with generous offers of help. We will work with district council colleagues and community organisations to co-ordinate this goodwill and generosity.

“Having previously dealt with the difficult situation that arose in Syria with refugees leaving that country for the UK, we have considerable experience of dealing with such situations. We are ready and willing to respond, together with colleagues in local government up and down the land.”