News
Appeal for more Kingston landlords to house Syrian refugee families
The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames has issued an appeal for local landlords to come forward as the first Syrian refugee family is resettled in the borough.
Their resettlement is part of the Government’s Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme after a local landlord came forward to offer a suitable property.
On behalf of partner agencies, the council is requesting the family’s privacy is respected. The young family is among some of the most vulnerable displaced Syrians identified by the UN which is working alongside the Home Office. Along with other agencies, the council say they will be working closely with the family as they embark on their new life in Kingston.
Competitive rents are offered within Local Housing Allowance Rates and in addition a landlord premium is paid in advance. Refugees housed through the scheme will be supported by a Refugee Action Kingston caseworker and a housing case worker, funded by the Home Office.
In order to qualify for the funding, homes need to be self-contained and available to rent for at least a 12 month period.
Councillor Kevin Davis, Leader of Kingston Council said:
“The disastrous situation in Syria has created a refugee crisis of biblical proportions. Kingston cannot solve that problem alone, but we can express our open and humanitarian nature by taking families who are in the most need.
“I am proud that today Kingston has received its first such family and I am hopeful that others will come forward with offers of homes they wish to rent to Kingston Council to take more such families.
“The UK government is asking every area to do what they can to help on humanitarian grounds. I am pleased that Kingston continues to play our part of being a responsible member of the international community.“
Interested landlords are being encouraged to contact: David Hill, Kingston Council’s Accommodation Services Lead Officer on 020 8547 5412 or email david.hill@kingston.gov.uk.
The Home Office’s Vulnerable Person’s Relocation Scheme
The funding for relocations is being provided through the Home Office’s Vulnerable Person’s Relocation Scheme.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees identifies Syrian refugees to be put forward for the relocation scheme. They are screened for security and assessed to meet the criteria including being victims of torture or violence, women and girls at risk, and having physical or medical needs.
Potential landlords can find out more information on the Council’s website.
