Responding to Global Humanitarian Crises
Coventry, as a city of peace and reconciliation, remains a place of sanctuary for high numbers of those seeking refuge from global crisis in the UK. We continue to extend our support to Afghan, Ukrainian, and Hong Kong communities, prioritising long-term integration and self-sufficiency.
UK Resettlement Scheme - building on a decade of success
Celebrating 10 years of our Migration Team and resettlement programme, we proudly reflect on welcoming over 1000 refugees since 2014. Our commitment to continuous improvement remains, as we strive for even greater integration outcomes.
Adapting to policy shifts
Navigating a dynamic policy landscape, the City Council has proactively responded to the Illegal Migration Act (2023) and Safety of Rwanda Act (2023), working towards reinforcing safeguarding measures and fostering close collaboration with third-sector organisations to ensure comprehensive support to those impacted. Individuals being accommodated for longer is having a significant impact, producing many complex cases which require sensitive navigation across services.
We stand by the minority of migrant workers impacted by the Carers Act 2022, advocating for fair employment and compensation. Through strategic partnership with Central England Law Centre we continue to provide guidance to affected individuals.
Homes for Ukraine has been a significant undertaking, with the programme now being extended and evolving significantly as the war continues. With over 519 Ukrainian arrivals in Coventry, we have successfully ensured minimal homeless presentations.
Asylum seekers across the city
Coventry hosts over 1,400 asylum seekers in dispersal accommodation across the city at any given time. This is in addition to the 482 asylum seekers housed in contingency hotels and initial accommodation. Following the introduction of the Streamlined Asylum Process by the Home Office in July 2023, there has been an acceleration in positive decisions for asylum seekers. Consequently, the city experienced a significant increase in newly granted refugees needing assistance and support, many of whom are very new to the country.
This influx has brought unexpected challenges to the city, including the need for housing, employment, and integration support. In response, the Local Authority Liaison Officers within the Migration Team have developed enhanced pathways in collaboration with colleagues from across the Council as well as external partnerships. These efforts aim to provide crucial support for these vulnerable newcomers and to develop programs to start their integration journey as early as possible.
Our approach remains flexible as we continue to assess the impact on the city and mobilize resources and direct them where they are most needed.
A collaborative approach to empowerment
To strengthen our support for refugee and migrant communities, we're enhancing our partnerships and service delivery. Through these partnerships, we aim to foster innovation in service delivery, encourage collaborative city-wide projects that bring fresh perspectives and efficient solutions to the challenges faced by our refugee and migrant communities.
Empowering new arrivals to thrive
Refugees face a unique set of barriers to landing a job, (re)starting their careers in the UK and applying their many skills and experiences to the UK labour market.
For refugees, a job is about more than simply making a living and gaining financial independence. It’s a chance to make friends, be a part of the community and fully contribute to UK society – all with a new sense of purpose and identity.
In light of this, we have developed enhanced support package for new arrivals including our specialist intensive English language course with sector-specific language training, boosting employment opportunities to refugees and newly arrived communities. Our employment support has expanded to include a volunteer placement programme, offering diverse opportunities for valuable work experience and community and integration.
Case study
Laila, a 22-year-old Afghan refugee, arrived in Coventry in March 2023 after living in a Home Office hotel for 6 months. Feeling isolated and lacking social connections, she joined the STEP Forward programme which supports women to learn new skills and take steps towards employment, education and training. Through the programme, Laila gained essential life skills, improved her English, and built a social network. She is now eager to continue her education in college and pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. The programme also connected her with Coventry City Council's Employment Officer to help her create a CV and find volunteer opportunities. Laila's case demonstrates the success of empowering refugee women to integrate into their new communities and achieve their goals.
"This class is really good! It helps me practice English, learn new things, and even use a laptop. I look forward to coming every week because it gets me out of the house. I feel so supported here and appreciate the free resources. STEP Forward is great!"