SOME Ukrainian families and struggling refugees in the Cirencester area have been able to start rebuilding their lives thanks to new grant funding.
The Cotswold District Council has used government funding to help get some homeless refugees off the street and provide them with accommodation and household appliances.
Some families and individuals have been able to find permanent accommodation through the Homes for Ukraine scheme which allows individuals across the UK to sponsor a named Ukrainian national or family to come to live in the UK with them, providing they have suitable accommodation to offer.
In addition, The Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has provided an annual grant allocation to assist with the Prevention of Homelessness.
The Cotswold District Council has been awarded £144,956 for 2023-24 rising to £153,004 in 2024-25, with an additional £155,966 granted as a top-up for this year.
This money allows the council to help pay deposits and rent in advance, furnish properties and provide temporary accommodation for these struggling families.
It also allows the council to source furniture and large home appliances to help these individuals rebuild their lives.
Leader of the CDC Cllr Joe Harris said: "We are delighted to be actively pursuing measures that enhance the living conditions of our refugee guests and tackle the urgent issue of homelessness in our community, which has been on the rise since the pandemic and cost of living crisis.
"We understand that these times are particularly difficult for everyone and understand the immense challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness in our community as they strive to find a home and rebuild their lives.
"This struggle is particularly pronounced for our refugee guests, who often arrive with very limited resources.
"Our ultimate goal is to maintain and expand our support for everyone in need, be it through assisting them in securing long-term accommodation, providing essential furniture and household items, or helping them access employment opportunities.”
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