More Syrian refugees to be housed in Newark and Sherwood after successful Government scheme exceeds expectations
Nine more Syrian refugees will be housed in the district after it was agreed to extend the successful resettlement scheme.
Members of Newark and Sherwood District Council’s homes and communities committee voted unanimously to resettle nine more refugees in the district as part of the Government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme (SVPRS).
It follows the successful settling of 58 refugees — 26 adults and 32 children — in Newark and Southwell since the scheme began in November 2016. Another family is due to arrive in Southwell in December.
Committee members were told the 58 individuals had successfully integrated into the community, with one adult in employment, 11 undertaking work experience and six having passed their driving test.
The council has exceeded its original pledge to resettle 40 to45 refugees, and has also resettled the highest number of families of the seven districts in Nottinghamshire.
Michael Brown, committee member, said: “I would like to say thank you to the team for their outstanding work on this, this is changing the lives of the refugees and has given them the support and education to learn English and integrate with the community, and their integration into Newark and Sherwood has been outstanding.
“I fully support this programme, it really does change lives and improves their wellbeing.”
Committee chairman Tim Wendels said: “The existing scheme has been really successful. I have had the opportunity to meet the refugees and the various support team working on the project and was able to congratulate them.
“Clearly there is a need to extend the project with the Government giving us funding to support the project, and we’re very well placed for this to continue.”
READ MORE:
Notts Police and Crime Commissioner-funded service offers advice to victims of stalking
It's official — Christmas is here! See our gallery of the Newark lights switch-on
Jail for gang who sped at 130mph while hurling missiles from getaway car at pursuing police