Since November 2021, West Sussex County Council (WSCC) has been responsible for providing support for refugees and family groups in the county under the British government resettlement scheme.
In March 2023, the UK government announced plans to permanently end the use of bridging accommodation. Previously used bridging hotel accommodation was served closure notices by the Home Office and in accordance with government requirements the hotels closed on 31 August 2023. Home Office contingency accommodation remains available until 31 December 2023, after this point no further Home Office accommodation is available. West Sussex County Council is therefore charged with securing accommodation for the remaining refugee families otherwise at risk of homelessness. Securing accommodation is within a commercial rental market and therefore the ability to present a quick decision is frequently required. All accommodation is financed using Home Office grant monies at no cost to West Sussex County Council.
The Assistant Director (Communities) is asked to approve the allocation of government grant monies to acquire rental accommodation for refugees, in accordance with government requirements and conditions.
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: Expenditure > £500,000 and affects more than 1 division;
Decision status: For Determination
Divisions affected: (All Divisions);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 22/10/2024
Decision due: Between 30 April 2025 and 28 February 2026 by Executive Director of Communities (Emily King)
Lead member: Emily King, Executive Director of Communities emily.king@westsussex.gov.uk
Contact: Marie Ovenden, Acting Head of Service - Migration and Resettlement Service Email: marie.ovenden@westsussex.gov.uk Tel: 033 022 23854.
Consultation process
Representation on the proposed decision can be made via the officer contact.
Democratic Services Contact: Erica Taunton Tel: 033 022 26050