Chesterfield borough councillors agree to rehome Afghan refugees

Storai, age 7 holds her sister Sameera age 2 1/2 years stand outside their home in the ruins of a vacant building in Kabul, Afghanistan. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)

Chesterfield Borough Council plans to help six families settle in the area over the course of five years after cabinet members agreed to take part in the the Government’s Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy and Afghan Citizens’ Resettlement schemes.

This will be done using the council’s own housing stock, as well as registered social housing providers.

Speaking in the meeting on Tuesday (November 2), Councillor Peter Innes said: “I applaud the idea of settling Afghan families here.”

He added that the resettment of Syrian refugees in the area in previous years had been a success.

Councillor Jill Mannion-Brunt echoed his positivity towards the scheme, however highlighted that steps needed to be taken to ensure that Afghan people’s qualifications were recognised to enable them to find work more easily.

“Let’s not add to the problems that these people face, let’s get their qualifications accredited,” she added.

More than 15,000 people have been evacuated by the UK Government from Afghanistan since August, including former staff who worked with the British Armed Forces and vulnerable people who have stood up for democracy, women’s rights and freedom of speech.

Leader Councillor Tricia Gilby commented: “Refugees have for a long time been welcome in Chesterfield.

“We are a very welcoming place.”

Councillors voted unanimously to take part in the resettlement scheme.