REFUGEES facing homelessness in the Cotswolds are now better supported.

The leader of Cotswold District Council, councillor Joe Harris had warned last year that Ukrainian refugees could be made homeless in the area.

He had urged more support is needed to help those fleeing the war by the government.

A year later, the Cotswold District Council has now been given allocated funding to save those from going into homelessness.

Through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, the Council can provide assistance with sourcing furniture and white goods and offers general support to ensure guests have everything they need to set up their homes.

The allocated funding has allowed them to continue to help with essential aspects such as paying deposits and rent in advance, furnishing properties, and providing temporary accommodation.

Cllr Joe Harris, leader of the council, said, "We are delighted to be actively pursuing measures that enhance the living conditions of our refugee guests and tackle the urgent issue of homelessness in our community, which has been on the rise since the pandemic and cost of living crisis.

"We understand that these times are particularly difficult for everyone and understand the immense challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness in our community as they strive to find a home and rebuild their lives.

"This struggle is particularly pronounced for our refugee guests, who often arrive with very limited resources.

"Our ultimate goal is to maintain and expand our support for everyone in need, be it through assisting them in securing long-term accommodation, providing essential furniture and household items, or helping them access employment opportunities.”

The Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has provided an annual grant allocation to assist with the Prevention of Homelessness, spanning a two-year period.

As part of this, Cotswold District Council has been awarded £144,956 for 2023-24, rising to £153,004 in 2024-25, with an additional £155,966 granted as a top-up for this year. 

This grant is ring fenced for homelessness, targeting those most in need and to ensure local authorities are resourced to take action to prevent homelessness as well as to assist the Council with maximising the support available to those under the Homes for Ukraine scheme in finding sustainable accommodation.