West Sussex to welcome 240 refugees

WEST SUSSEX will welcome 240 Syrian refugees to the county over the next four years, the county council has confirmed today (Thursday, November 12).
C121167-1  Stock Chichester County Hall phot kate ENGSUS00120120509162241C121167-1  Stock Chichester County Hall phot kate ENGSUS00120120509162241
C121167-1 Stock Chichester County Hall phot kate ENGSUS00120120509162241

Families are expected to arrive as early as next year, following West Sussex County Council’s formal agreement to support the refugees.

Leader Louise Goldsmith said the county was determined to play its part in helping the most vulnerable.

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Louise said: “As a county we have pledged to take 240 refugees over the next four years. There are lots of details to sort out but this is about helping those refugees in the greatest need including people who are vulnerable, women, children or those who are in need of medical care. As a county we want to do what we can to help.

“Thank you to all those people who have already come forward with offers of support. We are collating all those offers and are also keen to hear from people and groups who want to help.”

The county council is keen to hear from the following:

- Voluntary and community groups or individuals who are keen to help

- Syrian communities already in West Sussex

- Arabic groups that might be in a position to offer practical support and welcome

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- Faith groups that are expressing an interest in providing support

- Groups which have experience or expertise in supporting refugees

- Private sector landlords

Over the coming weeks the county council will be working with borough and district councils and other groups to finalise plans to welcome the refugees.

Anyone who can be of assistance should email [email protected]

For more information see www.westsussex.gov.uk/campaigns/syrian-refugee-crisis