Decision details

Decision made by

Cllr Jason Smithers

Leader of the Council

Decision Title

Afghan Refugees and Resettlement

Date of decision (same as date form signed)

10^th September 2021

Key Decision

No

Decision

That the Leader of the Council:

a)    Considered and agreed the council’s response to Afghan resettlement requests and a firm commitment pledge to supporting a number of families to resettle in North Northamptonshire Communities

b)    Noted the work to date in mobilising the North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) Afghan Resettlement Tactical Coordination Group (TCG) and preparatory work undertaken in anticipation of both a bridging hotel and longer-term resettlement requests

c)    Agreed the following council’ “pledge”:

“A commitment is made to support a minimum of 10 Afghan families to resettle in the North Northamptonshire area with associated support from the council, working closely with our partners.

Furthermore, following resettlement of 10 families, the council commits to continue to identify opportunities to extend our pledge and explore how the council can support a greater number of families.”

Reason for Decision

The urgent requirementto support refugees from Afghanistan is well documented nationally. It is important that a council pledge around how many families it will support is forthcoming for a number of reasons including the moral obligation to support refugees fleeing Afghanistan as well as bridging hotels, (despite best intentions) not being the best environments for families for anything more than a few days or weeks.

Alternative options rejected

Not to commit to support Afghan families. This option has not been progressed because the Council wishes to support the scheme, in recognition of the plight of the families in need.

Legal implications

The Leader has authority to make decisions on behalf of the Executive. Legal advice will be sought where relevant on any actions resulting from this decision.

Financial implications

The government has put in place funds that can be accessed to support people both in bridging hotels and for longer term resettlement. This includes funds to bridge the gap between housing benefit and higher costs associated with leasing larger properties for larger family units from the private rental sector.

At this point it is not clear what the longer-term costs of supporting resettled families will be.

Other implications

Human resources will play an important part in supporting the integration of resettled families into the local area, this will include time of benefits, housing and communities staff, work with community groups, community safety partnerships and strategic partners. 

At present the officers identified come primarily from the Adults, Communities and Wellbeing directorate, however it may be necessary to free up additional staff from across other directorates to support this programme.

Background papers considered

Declarations/conflict of interest?

None

Consultation

The Leader has consulted with the Executive in making a decision.

Confidential Decision?

No

Officer/ Executive member

       Date: 10^th September 2021

Governance Procedures (if applicable)

Date published to all Councillors

10^th September 2021

10^th September 2021

Call In Deadline

N/A

N/A