Coventry welcomes Syrian refugees as humanitarian crisis worsensCoventry is ready to open its arms and welcome refugees from Syria as it is “the right thing to do”.
The leader of the city council, Coun Ann Lucas, says that Coventry will never turn its back on those in need “wherever they come from” and will always be a “city of sanctuary”.
Coventry has already taken in dozens of Syrian refugees who have escaped the conflict that has gripped their country, with more already lined up to arrive in the city over the next two months.
And Coun Lucas says that Coventry is ready to step up to the plate once more.
She said: “We are a city of sanctuary and a city that cares deeply about people in need, wherever they come from, and we have always welcomed new arrivals to Coventry.
“Coventry has been at the forefront of welcoming those fleeing the conflict in Syria, and as one of four cities in the UK participating in the government’s response, Coventry has welcomed just over a third of those the government have granted asylum under the Vulnerable People’s Relocation (VPR) scheme.
“We wanted to do what’s right. And this is the right thing.
“As part of the UK government’s commitment to support the most vulnerable refugees from the Syrian conflict, as identified by the UNHCR (United Nations High Commission for Refugees), 78 people have so far been welcomed to live in the city, with a further 29 during the coming two months, and provided with care and support in Coventry over the past year or so.
“This is part of the Government’s total of approximately 216 people as part of the VPR programme since it started.
“The city council has taken responsibility for co-ordinating this within Coventry, making sure that people, most often women and children, who have suffered enormously through the Syrian conflict, are safe and cared for, in a dignified and appropriate way.
“We are very fortunate to be working with voluntary sector and faith organisations across the city, as well as colleagues in other statutory services, who have ensured that every one of our new citizens gets the support and care that they need most, when they most need it.
“We are pleased to welcome further people to Coventry and provide the same high level of welcome, care and support as those already settled in the city, and also to provide support and share learning with other cities and communities that offer places for refugees.
“We believe that local government should lead this work for communities, and is best placed to do so, ensuring integrated and effective support.”