In 2015, Stratford-on-Avon District Council committed to resettle 12 Syrian refugee families as part of the national Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme (SVPRS).
The first families arrived from refugee camps in late 2016, settling in Stratford-upon-Avon town. The families have integrated into the local community, their children are progressing well at school, and they have increased their English skills, enabling them to volunteer locally to improve conversational skills and move into employment.
In March 2019 the final Syrian families were welcomed, meeting the District Council's pledge to resettle 12 families.
They have been finding their way around the local area with help from local residents and the local refugee volunteer group.
Councillor Jo Barker, People Portfolio Holder, said: "These families are now part of our local community. I am proud that we, as a district council, have given sanctuary to those whose lives have been threatened and who are safe in our country."
Home Office funding enables the families to access English classes and provides costs to secure housing. Experienced support workers assist the families to engage with services, settle into the neighbourhood and help them and their children with access to medical appointments, and enrolment at schools and nurseries.
A total of 30 families have settled across Warwickshire achieving the total pledge across the county, district and borough councils. The families now have refugee status and will have a right to reside in the UK for at least five years.
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the resettlement of refugees.
The priority is to continue to resettle the most vulnerable refugees, identified and referred by UNHCR. Under the global resettlement scheme, the geographical focus will broaden beyond the Middle East and North Africa region and be better placed to swiftly respond to international crises.
The Government has also confirmed the continuation of the current funding to help successfully integrate resettled refugees in their new communities.
