Five families in Hart are the first to benefit from funding to support those who have fled war and conflict. This is to help Ukrainian and Afghan refugees find safe and secure homes in the district.
One of our guests, Kateryna*, is thrilled to have a home of her own with her two sons having previously lived with a host family.
She said: “My children and I are very happy with our new and quiet home. Each of my sons has his own room and personal space. We are very grateful to Hart for helping us overcome all the difficulties in our lives.”
The £1.5 million Local Authority Housing Fund was awarded to Hart District Council by the government earlier this year.
The funding has allowed the Council to provide extra affordable homes to help address the immediate refugee need. In the long term, they will be part of the rented affordable housing available to Hart residents on the housing register.
The Council is working jointly with a housing association, which supplied additional funding and resources to enable the homes to be provided.
Councillor Stuart Bailey, portfolio holder for Community, said: “We’re delighted that our partnership working has resulted in this much-needed housing for refugees who are trying to rebuild their lives. It’s impossible to understand the pressure those fleeing conflict may feel and this funding allows us to provide them with a place to call home.
“In time, the extra housing will create a lasting legacy for Hart communities by providing an additional permanent supply of affordable accommodation once our refugee families no longer need our support.”
*Not her real name
Pictured inside one of the new homes are Councillor Stuart Bailey, Bethany Lee, Council Nominations Officer, and Anastasiya Koniukhava, Council Community Projects Officer.