Much of what you will read in our Annual Report stories is based on how we support Elmbridge residents and businesses, however, our housing and family support teams have been supporting some guests to Elmbridge in 2021 and 2022.

Elmbridge has a history of supporting those in need. From 2017 we successfully helped to resettle a number of Syrian refugee families under the government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme. In 2021 Elmbridge stepped up again to support those fleeing the conflict in Afghanistan and in 2022 we are supporting the Homes for Ukraine programme.

Colin Waters, Head of Housing talks about the partnership working involved:

“Throughout 2021-2022 we have been working with local charities, such as Elmbridge CAN, as well as other councils and public organisations in the county, to come together in support of the Afghan families finding refuge in Elmbridge. This takes coordinated effort but ultimately, we are all working in the best interests of the Afghan nationals fleeing their home.

“In 2022, that coordination has been extended in our support of Ukrainian refugees, as we assess housing offers through the Homes for Ukraine scheme and play our part in helping them settle.

“We are very aware of the trauma inflicted on people as they flee a conflict and we will do all we can to ensure their time in Elmbridge helps to provide the stability and comfort they need at a terrifying time."

More information our support for those fleeing Afghanistan and Ukraine.