Afghan translator family to be offered home in Rugby 

The move is part of a national scheme available to interpreters who served for a year or more continuously on the frontline in Helmand from 1 May 2006 and have been made redundant.

The move was approved by Rugby Borough Council’s Cabinet at a meeting held on Monday (28 June 2021).

Around 5,000 individuals will be relocated prior to the final withdrawal of UK forces from Afghanistan later this year, with one family expected to move to Rugby under the scheme.

The family will be offered social housing in the most suitable area of the borough, taking into account any additional support the family will need for them to be integrated into the community. Funding will be provided by the Home Office for the initial period until the family are able to support themselves.

Cllr Emma Crane, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for Communities, Homes, Digital and Communications said: “Afghan translators have worked with our armed forces on the front line in Afghanistan under extremely dangerous conditions, and as our troops withdraw these families are at even greater risk.

“It is right that the Government has provided this scheme to recognise the bravery and commitment of these families, and it is right that Rugby will play its part.

Providing a safe home is the very least that we can offer to a family.

“We look forward to welcoming a family into our communities and wish them the very best as they adjust to a new life here in Rugby.”

The scheme is expected to be supported by all five of the districts and boroughs in the county.