Plymouth is set to participate in a new scheme to relocate Afghan heroes and their families.
A new Home Office scheme will relocate locally employed staff who worked for British forces, often in dangerous and challenging situations, during the conflict in Afghanistan.
The staff, who will move with their families, provided roles such as translators, interpreters or clerks.
Their work undoubtedly contributed to saving British lives and, in recognition of the commitment and bravery shown since 2013, they will be entitled to build new lives in the UK.
Plymouth is just one of a number of cities joining the scheme and our involvement supports the city’s strong connections with the Armed Forces and further boosts our credentials as a welcoming city.
During the first 12 months in the UK, the staff and their families will be supported through an integration package to assist in adjusting to their new life in the UK, including finding employment.
Although the language skills of the primary applicant are likely to be pretty advanced, support will also help family dependents so that attending schools and community activities is quickly possible.
After completing the five years limited leave, they can apply for permanent residence in the UK, ensuring that they can settle permanently in Plymouth and continue to build their lives and future.
Councillor Vivien Pengelly, Cabinet member for Homes and Communities, said: “I am absolutely thrilled that Plymouth is set become part of this scheme.
“These people are heroes. The courage they have shown in helping our troops among complex communities in Afghanistan is rightly being rewarded and I look forward to welcoming them here to Plymouth to join our warm armed forces family.”
Participation in the scheme follows on from a similar project run between 2014 and 2016 which saw 16 households welcomed to Plymouth.