Evacuees from Afghanistan will be housed in West Berkshire hotels from this weekend

EVACUEES from Afghanistan will begin arriving in West Berkshire this weekend.

West Berkshire Council confirmed today (Friday) that two local, unnamed, hotels will be used to temporarily host the evacuees while permanent accommodation is found.

Council leader, Lynne Doherty (Con, Speen) said: “I am sure we have all been affected by the distressing situation in Afghanistan and wish to offer help to those who must now flee their country.

“At council back in July, members unanimously backed my call to offer resettlement to Afghan families and this further move will see even more support given to those who have worked with British Forces and are now at risk following our withdrawal from the country.

“We are proud to be doing our bit to help those experiencing this unimaginable hardship and look forward to making these evacuees welcome in West Berkshire.

“I know local people will want to help while the evacuees are with us but I would ask that they go through the proper channels to do this so that offers can be put to best use.

“If you do want to offer support, please use the links provided on our website to find out how to do this.”

The news comes just days after the council announced that three families will be welcomed to the district in the next few weeks, under the Government’s Afghan Locally Employed Staff (LES) Relocation Scheme.

The Home Office informed the council yesterday that the two hotels will also be used to house those who have completed a 10-day quarantine period, while the search for permanent homes for them goes on.

Council staff are now working with their partners, including the NHS and the voluntary sector, to “ensure their safe arrival and stay in the district”.

A Good Exchange page has also been set up for those who wish to make a financial donation to support the evacuees and there are links on gov.uk to coordinate the donation of goods and other offers of help.