Wandsworth Council has reiterated its appeal to private landlords and residents with second homes in the borough to come forward if they are able to offer housing for the Afghan resettlement schemes.
A number of properties have been identified that could be suitable, with the council expecting to welcome the first family in the next few weeks. Now Wandsworth is keen to hear about any more good-quality, family-sized homes that may be available for letting.
Wandsworth is a member of the Government’s Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) and the Afghan Citizens’ Resettlement Scheme (ACRS), reconfirming its commitment to help Afghan families resettling in London.
Wandsworth Council has committed to providing good quality housing for families under these schemes and will ensure those settling in the borough are supported to access public services, such as healthcare and education, and to integrate into their communities.
The council is also providing guidance for residents who want to support the resettlement and response to the crisis in Afghanistan. There is no specific local demand for items such as clothes and toys, but residents who want to help refugee families are encouraged to give financial donations through organisations including the British Red Cross and the Refugee Council. Find out more at wandsworth.gov.uk/refugee-resettlement.
Councillor Ravi Govindia, Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: “Thank you to everyone so far who has come forward. Wandsworth prides itself on offering a safe and welcoming home to displaced people, and we are working hard to find homes for Afghan families.
“This needs to be balanced with the housing needs of local people, which is why we need private landlords to come forward. Please get in touch if you can help.”
If you are a a landlord with a property to offer, visit wandsworth.gov.uk/refugee-resettlement, email landlordlettings@wandsworth.gov.uk or call 020 8871 7333