UK Boosts Support for Afghans in Bridging Accommodation
The UK government is stepping up to help Afghans stuck in temporary bridging accommodation find long-term homes. Those resettled under the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS) and Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) face 18 months in hotels before securing settled housing – but that’s about to change.
From Hotels to Homes: Ending the Bridging Accommodation Crisis
Temporary hotels kept Afghans safe on arrival, but they’re no place to settle, especially for children adjusting to new schools or adults trying to work and build a future. Currently, Afghans make up a fifth of people living in these bridging hotels. The government’s new plan brings fresh funding and more robust support to help move families into permanent homes quicker.
“Bridging hotels, although safe, were never meant for long-term living, limiting families’ ability to put down roots,” said Minister for Immigration Robert Jenrick. He added that new support and funding will help families transition into proper homes and enjoy the independence they deserve.
£285 Million Fund Pours Into Afghan Housing
- The government is injecting £35 million to local authorities to boost housing support and ease access to jobs.
- The Local Authority Housing Fund is being expanded by £250 million to help councils find more homes.
- In partnership with Barratt Developments, over 20 new 4-bedroom homes have been allocated for Afghan families, with the first arrivals housed in Yorkshire.
- The Homes Partnership Model pilot will expand, leasing properties from major builders to resettle Afghans.
Government Voices on Afghan Support
Johnny Mercer, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, said: “I saw first-hand the invaluable contribution many Afghans made to the British military and our international partners.” He stressed the UK’s “unwavering” commitment to fast-track Afghans into settled housing so they can rebuild their lives with certainty and dignity.
Housing Minister Felicity Buchan added: “It is right that we help these Afghans properly put down roots – committing to employment and integrating into communities. I’m pleased to see Barratt Developments offering homes as a fine example to other housebuilders.”
Hands-On Help for Afghan Families
Dedicated officers from the Home Office, DWP, local councils, and charities will be stationed in hotels to provide ongoing advice. They’ll help Afghans navigate renting privately, find employment opportunities, and access English lessons. Translated guides and a helpline ensure everyone is supported.
Afghans arriving under ACRS or ARAP have rights to work, welfare benefits, and public services from day one. The government will provide detailed guidance starting in April, notifying families of hotel closures with a three-month notice and a staged process to avoid housing shortages in any area.
Moving Forward: Permanent Homes for Afghan Arrivals
So far, 9,000 Afghans have moved into settled accommodation, but 8,000 remain in 59 bridging hotels. The government says reducing reliance on costly hotels – which rack up around £1 million per day – represents value for taxpayers while improving lives.
All future Afghan arrivals will be placed directly into suitable homes, ensuring stability from day one. The government urges society to help, whether through job offers or integration initiatives, to make the UK a true home for those fleeing conflict.
