Southampton City Council is ready to support Afghan refugees
A statement from the Leader of the Council, Councillor Daniel Fitzhenry
"Southampton is a city of sanctuary, and over recent months we’ve worked closely with the Home Office to arrange to welcome a small number of refugee families in a planned way.
"Following the rapid escalation of events in Afghanistan, we are in discussions with regional and government stakeholders to provide further support as needed, so that people coming to Southampton are given every opportunity to integrate into our communities and rebuild their lives safely."
Contacting the Home Office*
If you are a non-British national in Afghanistan, or are the family member of a non-British national in Afghanistan, and in need of assistance, you should call (+44) 02475389980.
If you are a British national, or family member of a British national in Afghanistan you should call +44 (0)1908 516666 and select the option “Consular services for British nationals” or Email help@fco.gov.uk
*Please note: we have been advised that the above lines are currently experiencing a high number of calls and so it may take some time to get through.
HOME OFFICE FACTSHEET: Resettlement routes for Afghan nationals
Want to help?
Residents who want to do something to help at this early stage can donate to the following charities:
- Emergency relief charities, such as The International Rescue Committee and the British Red Cross, are still working on the ground in Afghanistan
- Women for Women International helps female survivors of war rebuild their lives
- Charities such as Care4Calais are preparing to support refugees arriving in the country by collection clothes donations
- Afghanaid provide kitchen kits that allow people who have left their homes to cook and safely store food
Southampton united against hate
Southampton has a long and proud history of tolerance and respect for diversity including different cultures and faiths, with communities living peacefully side by side for generations. This is something we can all be proud of.
Reporting hate crime and harassment
First of all consider the safety of you and the victim. If either of you are in danger, call the police immediately on 999.
For less urgent cases you can visit any police station or call 101 or Crimestoppers on
0800 555 111. Crimes should always be reported to the police.
You can also report an incident to us, whether you are the victim or a witness. Reports can be anonymous.
You can learn more and report an incident using the Love Don't Hate app. To download the app, visit Google Play or the Apple App Store and search for 'Southampton Love Don't Hate'.
