The Local Government Association (LGA) reveals that a significant number of Afghan refugees in some parts of England, who were previously accommodated in hotels, are now presenting themselves as homeless.
The LGA calls on the government to provide funding to keep hotel places open for those struggling to find permanent housing, warning of a potential worsening of the situation in the coming weeks.
Government’s Stance on Support:
Last month, Cabinet Office minister Johnny Mercer stated in Parliament that Afghan refugees settling in the UK should eventually become independent of central government support, with an expectation for families to support themselves.
Residents were given at least three months’ notice to leave temporary accommodation, with the deadline having expired at the end of July for some.
Vulnerable Afghan Families at Risk:
The LGA previously warned that many vulnerable Afghan families seeking safety in the UK could end up homeless due to the eviction from hotels.
In an update, the LGA reveals that around 20% of evicted Afghans have presented as homeless, though this figure varies across the country.
Pressure on Local Councils:
LGA chairman Shaun Davies highlights that some families are merely being moved from hotels to other temporary accommodations, which he deems as “wrong.”
Local councils are under immense pressure, grappling with record numbers of households in temporary accommodation and a severe housing shortage across the country.
Government figures show that by the end of March, 104,510 households were in temporary accommodation, marking a 25-year high.
Disruption and Distress for Afghan Families:
The situation concerning Afghan refugees is causing significant disruption and distress, particularly for vulnerable families.
The LGA foresees a potential escalation in the issue as the Home Office stops funding remaining bridging hotels for Afghan families in the upcoming days and weeks.
Calls for Continued Government Support:
The LGA acknowledges the government’s willingness to cooperate on the matter but emphasizes the need to ensure a smooth transition for Afghan families without passing the burden of costs and responsibility to local councils.
The LGA urges the government to continue funding hotel places for those struggling to find accommodation, preventing the closure of hotels merely to accommodate new arrivals.
This would allow councils to focus on securing permanent homes and schools for Afghan families.
Government Assistance:
Johnny Mercer points out that the government has made flexible funding of £7,100 available per person to support move-on initiatives, including providing deposits, furniture, rental top-ups, and rent advances.
He highlights the generous support being offered to Afghan refugees, describing it as the most substantial offer the country has ever made in the private rented sector.
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