Council thanks all who gave a warm welcome to Afghan families

Cheshire East Council has praised everyone involved in welcoming and supporting families who arrived from Afghanistan following the recent withdrawal of NATO military forces from the area.

Children and families were supported by council staff, partner organisations and community, voluntary and faith organisations at a local hotel before many being resettled in locations across the country. Plans are in place for five families to live locally in towns across Cheshire East.

Funded by a grant from the Home Office, some examples of the support that has been offered includes:

• GP, hospital and dental appointments, health assessments for pregnant women and specialist support around mental health;
• Covid vaccines and regular testing offered to all families;
• Provision of warm clothing and footwear, toiletries, baby milk, nappies, prams and toys;
• Teaching sessions for the youngest children, a focus on literacy and numeracy for older children with some now going to a secondary school, as well as support with adult learning;
• Working with local registered housing providers and private landlords to identify suitable properties;
• Registering for bank accounts and working with the Department for Work and Pensions for Universal Credit registration and job-seeking advice; and
• Daily briefing sessions with the families where any issues are reported and escalated to the Home Office.

Councillor Kathryn Flavell, lead member for children and families at Cheshire East Council, said: “We owe so much to these families, who risked their lives to support our Armed Forces in Afghanistan.

“I am so proud of how quickly support was mobilised from our staff, partners and the community.  They truly demonstrated their compassion, and everyone worked round the clock to provide such a warm welcome and safe sanctuary to those who have fled their home country in such difficult circumstances.

“We’ve had some great feedback from the parents we’ve supported, telling us that they are happy with the help that has been provided, for which they are extremely grateful.

“However, our work doesn’t stop here and support for both those families who are staying with us or moving onto other parts of the country is our top priority. Our aim is to ensure that they are all safe, happy and healthy and able to take full advantage of the opportunities available both in Cheshire East and the UK.”