UK Launches Major Blitz to Get Afghan Families Out of Hotels and Into Homes
The UK government is stepping up to help Afghan refugees finally move on from temporary hotel stays into settled housing. New funding and fresh support will ease the transition for those who fled Afghanistan under two key resettlement schemes.
Thousands Still Stuck in Bridging Hotels
Afghans arriving through the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS) and Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) currently spend up to 18 months in so-called bridging accommodation — mostly hotels. While safe, these hotels are unsuitable for children, hamper job prospects, and prevent families from truly settling down.
Afghans make up one-fifth of bridging hotel residents. The government’s new plan aims to fast-track their move into proper homes, cutting pressure on local communities and public services.
£35 Million Cash Injection and Housing Boost
- £35 million allocated to Local Authorities to boost support for housing and employment access
- Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities expands Local Authority Housing Fund by £250 million to find homes for Afghans
- Partnership with Barratt Developments delivering over 20 new family homes nationwide
The first Afghan families have already moved into new homes in Doncaster, with more set to move into properties in Bedfordshire, canterbury/" title="Canterbury" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Canterbury, North Somerset, and Telford.
Government Ministers Rally Behind Afghan Resettlement
Veterans Affairs Minister Johnny Mercer: “I saw first-hand the invaluable contribution many Afghans made to the British military. Our commitment is unwavering. This new funding will speed up their resettlement into long-term housing so they can build lives here.”
Housing Minister Felicity Buchan: “We’re committed to helping these brave Afghans put down roots. We welcome Barratt Developments’ support — a fine example to others.”
Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick: “Many risked their lives supporting the UK. Bridging hotels were never meant for long-term stays. This new support will help families enjoy the freedoms that come with settled homes.”
On the Ground Support to Ease Transition
Dedicated Home Office liaison officers, council staff, and charities will be based in hotels to advise Afghans on renting privately, finding work, and accessing English lessons. Translated materials and helplines are already available to support them.
Up to 9,000 Afghans have already rehomed successfully, but around 8,000 remain in 59 hotels. The government plans a phased hotel closure with three months’ notice to prevent local housing crunches.
Moving Afghans into permanent homes saves taxpayers money too — hotel accommodation costs about £1 million a day. Future arrivals will go straight into suitable housing for stable, independent lives.
The Big Picture: A Call for Community Support
The government urges everyone to play a part — whether by offering jobs or helping Afghan families integrate. With increased funding and partnerships with housebuilders, Britain is set to give Afghan refugees the stability and community ties they desperately need.
