Refugees will arrive soon

The council proposes to resettle 50-60 individual refugees in the first year and a further 50-60 people in the second year – and two families will arrive before Christmas.

Coun Erin Hill, Cabinet Member for Family Support, said the plan prioritises help for survivors of torture and violence, women and children at risk and those who need medical care.

Labour MP Paula Sherriff said: “I welcome the news that Kirklees Council are taking in 100 refugees over the next two years. People fleeing from persecution in war-torn countries such as Syria need a safe haven. It’s important to understand that these families have faced the most horrific and unimaginable circumstances. We must make them feel welcome and secure in our community.”

Central government will pay for arrivals in the first two years, supporting housing, management, health and education costs. Staffing costs to cover administration of the scheme will also be met.

Plans to secure homes and any necessary school places or health support for the families are now under way. Homes will initially be allocated through Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing or a local registered social landlord.

Figures for those being resettled will be reviewed in the second year of the plan.

The government have vowed to resettle 20,000 people across Britain as families flee persecution and danger in war-torn countries such as Syria.

Coun Erin Hill said: “At the first opportunity, we committed to offering support to the Syrian refugees who have been through unimaginable trauma and need a safe place to live.

“Our priority has always been to move the refugees into safe, secure and supported housing.”