The Head of Housing and Health presented the report which sought adoption of the updated Sevenoaks District Council UK Resettlement Scheme Policy, following the current national Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme coming to an end in May 2020 and being replaced by the ‘UK Resettlement Scheme.’  The Policy would enable the Council to support the resettlement of refugee families if suitable and affordable housing was identified. The policy included the delegation  of powers to the Portfolio Holder responsible for Housing and Health after consultation with Local Members.

The policy detailed how the Council would work closely with local partners including Kent County Council (KCC) and the contracted support provided. Properties put forward under the scheme would be considered on a case-by-case basis and approved under the Policy, once the property had been assessed for its affordability and suitability for the scheme, in consultation with KCC and the local health/support providers.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved: That

a)     the updated Sevenoaks District Council UK Resettlement Scheme Policy as set out in Appendix A to the report, be adopted; and

b)     the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Health be granted delegated authority to make decisions relating to the Sevenoaks District Council UK Resettlement Scheme Policy, after consultation with Local Members.