Council Leader thanks community for Afghan support
Vale of Glamorgan residents have shown their support for the Entitled Persons (EPs) from Afghanistan temporarily staying at the Holiday Inn Express in Rhoose as part of a Ministry Of Defence (MOD) scheme.
There has been a steady stream of donations made by members of the local community to help make this group’s spell in the area more comfortable.
Gifts including items for children have been received and passed on to people who have had to leave their homes behind and travel with very few possessions.
These are not illegal immigrants, asylum seekers or refugees. The UK Government has granted them indefinite leave to remain in this country, which is now regarded as their home.
They will be in the hotel for a maximum of nine months before moving on to permanent accommodation across the UK.
Cllr Lis Burnett, Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: “The Council and its residents did not decide that these people would come into our community. The hotel was selected for this use by the MOD as part of its Afghan Resettlement Programme (ARP).
“However, the citizens of the Vale have a long history of helping those in need and values relating to tolerance, acceptance, understanding and inclusivity are a central feature of this Council’s ongoing ethos and approach.
“That is why we are happy to support this scheme and why Vale residents have provided our visitors with such a warm welcome.
“Many of these families will have suffered great trauma, given up everything and left their homes to move to a new country. It is highly likely they will feel vulnerable and scared as they start a completely new life.
“I previously asked citizens to help these people acclimatise and adjust to life here as the Vale will probably be their first home in the UK.
“It’s humbling to see the local community respond to that request so emphatically.
“We must show this group the empathy and dignity they deserve and make their stay as comfortable as possible.
“I’d like to thank those that have made donations. I’m sure such warmth, hospitality and compassion has meant a great deal to people that have arrived with very little.”
More information about the Afghan resettlement scheme can be found on the UK Government website.