Vale of White Horse District Council has welcome its second Syrian refugee family to the district, with four more families due to arrive next year.
The council is committed to taking in six Syrian refugee families altogether and are calling for more private landlords to get in touch. They are offering a good package of support as an incentive.
Cllr Matthew Barber, Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “I’m very pleased that we’ve welcomed our first two Syrian families and thank the Vale community for the support they have provided. We’re aiming to welcome a further four families next year so are looking to private landlords to get in touch if they have suitable accommodation available.”
The package of support includes; two months deposit; two month’s rent-in-advance; a tenancy securement fee; direct payment of rent to the landlord and ongoing tenancy support.
Private landlords who might be able to offer suitable three-bedroom properties to help refugee families are asked to contact Vale of White Horse District Council on 01235 422442.
The British Red Cross is working closely with Vale of White Horse District Council to provide reception and support services for the Syrian refugees. This includes meeting and greeting people as they arrive at the airport; escorting and helping people settle into their accommodation; and providing advice and assistance to help orientate them to their new community.
Rose Haines, service manager at the Red Cross said: “The Red Cross will continue to provide both practical and emotional support to the refugees as they settle into life in the Vale. We are very proud to be working alongside the local authority and other partner agencies to ensure those fleeing the violent conflict in Syria can find a place of safety in Oxfordshire.”