Councils helping refugees to feel safe and secure

The District Councils are hiring three Ukrainian speaking translators, to help make the transition to their new homes as easy and as safe as possible.

South Norfolk Cabinet Member for Better Lives Cllr Alison Thomas said:

“These people have lost their homes, their livelihoods and their possessions. We want to do everything we possibly can to ensure that they feel safe, secure and welcomed into our district. “It’s absolutely vital we have clear lines of communication set up from the outset, so we can help the refugees transition into this new way of life as smoothly as possible and that we can immediately answer their questions and help with any problems they may have.”

South Norfolk and Broadland are welcoming around 150 refugees to the districts, almost a third of the overall figure expected in Norfolk. The District Councils have been carrying our various checks to ensure the accommodation that has been offered by residents is safe, clean and appropriate. They will also visit all the refugees once they have settled in, along with a Ukrainian speaking translator, to ensure they are safe and well in their new homes.

Broadland Cabinet member, Fran Whymark said:

“People in Broadland and South Norfolk have been quick to offer help and we are extremely proud of those who have shown an immense amount of compassion by coming forward to offer accommodation and give what they can during this humanitarian crisis.”

The Councils' Help Hub will also be on-hand to help people access health services and are working with many charitable networks to ensure that they have essentials like clothes and other items that they need. The Council are also hosting events where refugees can meet up, share experiences and stories, and are also holding separate events for host families.