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Syrian Refugee scheme in Suffolk

Suffolk County Council

(source: Suffolk County Council)

Learn how Suffolk has agreed to take up to 200 Syrian refugees over the next five years and find out how to donate furniture or electrical items.

As part of the Government’s Syrian Vulnerable Person Scheme, Suffolk’s Public Sector Leaders have unanimously agreed in October 2015 to take up to 200 Syrian refugees over the next five years. Those coming to Suffolk and across the UK are those at severe risk of harm or death. Plans are in place to bring 20,000 refugees to the UK via the scheme.

A task group which includes representatives from local authorities, health, police and the voluntary and faith sectors has been set up to put in place appropriate housing, education, health and support services provision.

Due to the location of suitable housing, health, education and support services the refugees will be settled predominantly in the greater Ipswich area. Housing will predominantly be via private sector landlords.

Members of the task group work with the Home Office to agree the families which come to Suffolk based on the services and facilities we are able to offer. Security and health checks are carried out on all those being considered for resettlement before they arrive in the UK.

Refugees will have leave to remain for five years on humanitarian grounds, this includes the ability to work.

Find out more

Visit www.suffolkrefugee.org.uk and find:

  • what Suffolk is doing to support Syrian refugees
  • out how you can donate furniture or electrical items
  • a set of frequently asked questions

or call Suffolk County Council’s Contact Centre on 0345 6031842.


Community Action Suffolk supports local groups and communities and will work with local voluntary and community sector agencies to promote volunteering opportunities and support for organisations to help refugees to be welcomed to settle into the area.