The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has announced plans to house Afghan nationals who played pivotal roles in aiding the British Armed Forces, at the East Camp housing estate in St Athan, Vale of Glamorgan. This initiative is set to begin by the end of the month, accommodating 50 individuals initially, with more expected to arrive in mid-April. The camp has the capacity to host up to 180 people and is part of the broader Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP), designed to support Afghans who were employed by or collaborated with the UK government and armed forces in Afghanistan, including interpreters.
The MOD expressed its gratitude towards these Afghans for their courageous service alongside British forces, emphasizing the UK’s commitment to facilitating a smooth transition for ARAP-eligible families to settle in the UK. The plan involves providing transitional housing at the Defence Estate, including East Camp, where eligible individuals will stay temporarily for about six weeks before relocating to more permanent accommodation.
The scheme also extends to the family members of the relocated Afghans, granting them indefinite leave to remain in the UK. This includes a partner, dependent children, and other family members who meet the eligibility criteria set by the MOD and the Home Office.
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