Funding approved to allow Syrian refugees settlement in Mansfield

It is part of the national Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme, a Home Office funded project rehousing at least 20,000 refugees over the next five years.

Mansfield District Council has already relocated 23 people, or five families, and it will welcome two more families totalling 10 refugees later this month - most of whom have been camped in countries surrounding Syria.

Councillor Barry Answer, portfolio holder for housing, said: “With funding from the Home Office, the council will provide its statutory duty and give support to the country-wide effort in providing humanitarian protection to Syrian refugees.

“This includes housing, education and welfare support to settle them in the community.”

The scheme helps those without support in Syria, including mothers, children and people with medical needs.

Mansfield District Council has worked closely with the neighbouring county and city authorities to secure settlement for 18 families across Nottinghamshire.

The Home Office will provide the council with up to £8,520 in the first year for each refugee, supporting housing and welfare needs.

Additional funding will be provided for education, including a £1,000 special needs assessment, £2,250 for 3-4 year olds and £4,500 for 5-18 year olds.

The motion was presented to the council by Councillor Roger Sutcliffe, portfolio holder for finance.