Council set to welcome more Afghan families

CEREDIGION is preparing to welcome more families from Afghanistan as part of efforts to help the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

The county council is encouraging those with empty self-contained properties to come forward and help.

In particular the authority is looking for accommodation for an Afghan family who supported British involvement prior to the withdrawal of forces from the country last August.

Many Afghans are still waiting in “bridging accommodation” until a more permanent home can be found for them.

Ceredigion Council has already resettled one family in the county, but arrangements to house a second family are on hold while further accommodation is sought.

The council said the accommodation should be of a suitable standard, self-contained, have adequate kitchen and bathroom facilities and will need to be available for a minimum of 12 months. The rent will be paid at Local Housing Allowance (housing benefit) level.

Ceredigion Council signed up to the Home Office scheme to resettle Afghan nationals who are vulnerable to repercussions following the Taliban takeover.

Ceredigion Council leader Ellen ap Gwynn, who is chair of the Ceredigion Refugee Resettlement Group, said: “We are extremely grateful to the property-owners in Ceredigion who have offered their properties since the start of the scheme.

“Due to delays in the relocation process, the properties offered are sadly no longer available.”

Anyone who can help or wants more information can get in touch with Ceredigion Council on 01545 570881 or email clic@ceredigion.gov.uk and ask for the Refugee Resettlement Coordinator.