United Kingdom Resettlement Scheme (UKRS)
The UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS) started in March 2021. Its purpose is to settle vulnerable Refugees in need of protection from regions affected by conflict and instability across the globe.
The scheme is run in partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner (UNHCR). The UK supports the UNHCR’s global effort to relieve the humanitarian crisis through the provision of resettlement opportunities for vulnerable people who have registered with the UNHCR and where resettlement is considered necessary. Find out more about UNHCR on their website.
The scheme's primary purpose is to resettle Refugees in a way that:
- Secures national security and public protection.
- Has the wellbeing of the vulnerable persons and the welcoming communities at the centre of decision making, and
- Delivers value for money for the UK taxpayer.
The following groups are prioritised:
- Legal and / or Physical Protection needs
- Survivors of Torture and / or violence
- Medical Needs
- Women and Girls at risk
- Family reunification
- Children and Adolescents at risk
- Lack of foreseeable alternative durable solutions
Integration Support for UKRS
For how this scheme is funded by the Home Office please refer to the UKRS funding instructions
This is ringfenced funding which the Council cannot use for other purposes. Council Tax money is not used and activities funded by the integration fund for UKRS families and individuals does not detract from the delivery of the Council’s other services.
The activities funded using the integration fund enables a saving to the taxpayer over the long-term by reducing the future demand from Refugees for support from other public services, enables employment opportunities and well-being by removing barriers.
These activities are not unique to Cherwell: councils across the UK are doing similar integration work, at the request of the UK government, from the same grant funding.