York is ready to welcome Afghan refugees fleeing from the Taliban.
The city has already given a new home to 81 refugees of the conflict in Syria, and “we know local people will welcome those escaping the Taliban now too”, said Cllr Darryl Smalley today.
He said City of York Council has been working with the Home Office and others to support the national effort to resettle people from Afghanistan.
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Cllr Smalley, executive member for culture, leisure and communities, said: “It’s now or never to save innocent people from the terror of the Taliban. Work is underway to ensure York does its bit in this international effort.
“Council staff are working around the clock so that we are ready to give refugees the sanctuary they need.
“Alongside local authorities in the region, we are working closely with Government and Migration Yorkshire who will allocate councils a proportion of refugee families.
“Once we know the families’ specific needs, alongside our local key partners, we will work to provide all the necessary support as we have always done with previous refugees.”
The council has already received “many heart-warming offers of support”.
“We will be communicating with residents and businesses in coming days to provide information on how best they can help our effort locally.”
Housing is a priority. If you are a landlord or have accommodation and can help, email [email protected].