Lancashire County Council to end refugee resettlement coordination role
Officials say resettlement schemes will transition to new administration arrangements
Lancashire County Council has announced it will no longer coordinate refugee resettlement schemes after a cabinet decision.
The county council will notify the Home Office of its intention to withdraw, initiating a managed process to transfer coordination responsibilities.
The administration of both existing and new refugee cases will end by 31st March 2027, as alternative arrangements are established.
County Councillor Joshua Roberts, Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Environment, and Communities, commented on the resolution:
"Cabinet has carefully considered the options available and agreed that the Council should step back from its role as the coordinating authority for refugee resettlement schemes."
"This decision relates to the administration and coordination of the schemes rather than the support available to refugees living in Lancashire."
"We will work closely with the Home Office and our partners to ensure a safe and managed transition that protects those currently receiving support and provides clarity for all organisations involved."
The council's decision follows a review, which found no statutory obligation for the council to continue as the coordinating authority.
The transition plan aligns with wider changes from Local Government Reorganisation and a national resettlement programme wind-down.
The Cabinet has empowered officers to collaborate with the Home Office for setting implementation arrangements and a transition timetable.