Government launches new community sponsorship scheme for refugees
As part of its commitment to resettle vulnerable refugees, the government has launched a new sponsorship scheme which allows community organisations, including charities and faith groups, to be responsible for helping refugee families resettle in the UK. Organisations taking part in the scheme will assist refugees with the resettlement process – such as finding housing, applying for benefits, and registering with a GP.
Accompanying the scheme is a new online service that allows members of the public to easily contribute to the support of refugees in their local area. The service is currently being trialled in a limited number of areas, but allows local authorities to list precisely what areas of support it currently requires – from donations of clothing or furniture, to people will to befriend and show refugees around the area.
Launching the scheme alongside the Archbishop of Canterbury, Home Secretary Amber Rudd said,
The response of the British public to the refugee crisis has been one of overwhelming generosity and many have been moved to make kind offers of assistance.
This is a ground-breaking new development for resettlement in the UK and I wholeheartedly encourage organisations that can help to offer their support.
I hope that this new approach will help bring communities together and support these often traumatised and vulnerable families as they rebuild their lives, and contribute to and thrive in our country.
