Wiltshire Council has issued a statement in light of the current situation in Afghanistan.
On the 15th August 2021 the Taliban captured the capital of Afghanistan, Kabul. After 20 years of war, the group has regained control of the country.
Cllr Richard Clewer Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Military Civilian Integration said, "We are monitoring the difficult and distressing situation in Afghanistan and are awaiting government guidance as the situation unfolds.
“Here in Wiltshire we have always been ready to help those who need a safe place to stay and we will respond as necessary when guidance is published. This includes offering support to interpreters and those trying to reach a safe haven. We are already looking to provide homes for at least two families and there may be more in due course.
"Wiltshire has a strong military presence and we recognise the extraordinary efforts of our service personnel who have served in Afghanistan as part of the UK efforts to bring peace to the region. We know the latest news may be difficult for our local military communities and we are here ready to support them at this time”.
On Tuesday 17th August, Boris Johnson announced a new UK resettlement scheme which will see the UK take 20,000 Afghan refugees, prioritising women, children and religious minorities.
More from Local News
-
Salisbury Sweep Taunton Aside as they Progress in FA Cup
Salisbury FC progress into the next round of the FA Cup after breezing past Taunton Town courtesy of a first-half Bartolo brace, a Josh Hedges curler and Mo Dabre's first goal for the club.
-
Salisbury all Set for All the Fun of the Charter Fair
Salisbury Charter Fair will return this October, bringing rides, entertainment, food and traditional fairground fun to the city centre for visitors of all ages.
-
New Army accommodation completed at Upavon
New bedspaces have been delivered for soldiers and officers at Trenchard Lines, Upavon, providing modern, sustainable living accommodation for Army personnel.
-
Stars Appeal’s Walk for Wards raises record-breaking total for second consecutive year
Salisbury Hospital’s Stars Appeal is celebrating another record-breaking total raised at Walk for Wards.
-
Appeal for witnesses following assault in Salisbury
Police in Salisbury are appealing for witnesses following an assault on a 17-year-old boy.
-
Man pleads not guilty in relation to triple fatal collision
A man has pleaded not guilty to multiple offences following a serious collision on the A36 at Knook last year in which three people died.
-
Salisbury Foodbank Issues Urgent Call For Support
Salisbury Foodbank is calling on the community to support people facing hardship as need remains persistently high.
-
Review: The Haunting of Hill House
The World Premiere of the stage adaptation of Shirley Jackson's novel, The Haunting of Hill House, is currently playing at Salisbury Playhouse, and it is brilliant!