UKRS

UK Resettlement Scheme

From 2020 all existing schemes (Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme, Vulnerable Children’s Resettlement Scheme, Mandate and Gateway Schemes) have been consolidated into a new global resettlement scheme, broadening the geographical focus beyond the Middle East and North Africa region so as to be better placed to swiftly respond to international crises, in coordination with global partners.

The new scheme continues to resettle the most vulnerable refugees, as identified and referred by UNHCR. The scheme originally aimed to resettle 5,000 people within its first year, with subsequent targets renewed on an annual basis, however, this number has reduced due to the pandemic. Rates of support to local authorities remain the same as they were under the Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme (VPRS), and the Community Sponsorship Scheme also continues. 

Contact: SESPM is supported in delivering all these resettlement programmes and coordinating these workshops by an expert Programme Coordinator, Susan Fawcus; for further information please contact Susan on susanfawcus@secouncils.co.uk.

Further information

In addition to the local authority-led model for refugee resettlement, SESPM is assisting in providing information and raising awareness about the Community Sponsorship model. Full community sponsorship is a way that community groups can be involved in supporting the resettlement of vulnerable people fleeing conflict. SESPM works alongside RESET,  a new charity partnering with leading refugee, faith and community charities to promote community sponsorship across the UK.

A new process for emergency resettlement will also be developed, allowing the UK to respond quickly to instances of heightened protection need, providing a faster route to protection where lives are at risk. Click here to access the full Ministerial written statement and here to access the Government’s press statement. 

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