York set to welcome Afghan refugees

Migration Yorkshire has announced their fair share figures across the region, which will see York welcome at least 38 Afghan refugees in the coming years as part of the Government’s Afghan Citizens' Resettlement Scheme (ACRS) and Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP).

Since the announcement that NATO military forces would withdraw from Afghanistan, City of York Council started work alongside the Home Office, Ministry of Defence and MHCLG to support those fleeing the violence and conflict in Afghanistan. 

All local authorities in Yorkshire & Humber have committed to supporting ACRS, and in York work is ongoing with Migration Yorkshire to ensure as many families are supported. 

The Council will provide support along with Refugee Council and local charities such as RAY (Refugee Action York) ad York City of Sanctuary. One family has already been welcomed to York through the programme, with more families expected to arrive in January.

Councillor Darryl Smalley, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure & Communities at City of York Council commented:

“York has a proud record of providing sanctuary to those in need. Our city has given a home to 81 refugees under the Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme for refugees of the conflict in Syria, and we know local communities will welcome those escaping the terror of Taliban too.

“We are ready and willing to give safety and a new life to those fleeing unimaginable danger. The Council is working hard to support as many people as possible but is exclusively guided by the allocations made by Migration Yorkshire, the regional migration partnership.

“Council staff are working around the clock so that we are ready to give refugees the sanctuary and safety they need. Currently, together with local partners, we are identifying the key needs of those individuals and families who will make York their new home.”