Stockport has welcomed evacuees from Afghanistan, who have arrived in the borough as part of the government’s Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) scheme.
The scheme was set up to support those who have supported the UK mission in Afghanistan and who would be at significant risk if they remained in Afghanistan as a result, following the withdrawal of British and American forces from the country in August.
The individuals and families have arrived from a quarantine hotel and will be residing in hotel accommodation allocated by the Home Office as a temporary arrangement until longer-term, more suitable accommodation can be secured across the country.
Stockport Council, along with local health and other public sector partners, will be working to support the new arrivals and assessing their needs to ensure they are provided for during their short stay in the borough.
As part of the government’s Afghan Citizens’ Resettlement Scheme, 5,000 Afghans will be allowed to settle in the UK, with the long-term goal a total of 20,000. It will focus on women and children as well as religious and other minorities in greater danger from the Taliban.
Cllr Amanda Peers, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Neighbourhoods, said:
“People recently evacuated from Afghanistan have been through an incredibly traumatic time. I am pleased that along with our Greater Manchester partners we can offer them a place of safety in the borough until more permanent arrangements are made. We are a kind and welcoming borough and we have already received lots of offers of support, for which I thank our local communities.
“We are proud to be doing what we can to help those experiencing this unimaginable hardship and will work alongside other agencies to make sure the evacuees are as comfortable as possible during their temporary stay with us.”