Council to end role coordinating refugee resettlement schemes

Thursday, 3 September 2026 14:14

By Central Radio News

The County Council will withdraw from its role as the coordinating authority for refugee resettlement schemes across Lancashire.

The decision follows a review of the council's involvement in administering the schemes.

The council currently acts as the coordinating authority for refugee resettlement schemes in Lancashire.

Under the agreed approach, the county council will notify the Home Office of its intention to cease administration of the schemes, allowing time for alternative arrangements to be put in place.

Coordination responsibilities for both existing and new cases will transfer through a managed process, with administrative responsibilities ending no later than 31 March 2027.

County Councillor Joshua Roberts, Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Environment and Communities, said: "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 report considered by Cabinet noted that there is no statutory requirement for Lancashire County Council to act as the coordinating authority for the schemes.

The decision relates to the county council's role in coordinating refugee resettlement programmes and does not affect the Government's continuation of those schemes.

Cabinet has authorised officers to work with the Home Office and relevant partners to agree implementation arrangements and a transition timetable.

Have you got a local news story? Email us now, news@central.radio

More from Preston, Leyland & Chorley News

Plans revealed for CCTV monitoring plans at recycling centres across Lancashire

Specialist CCTV cameras are to be installed at Lancashire County Council’s household waste recycling centres to ensure businesses are not also using the facilities to dump their rubbish.
Online applications open for Lancashire primary and secondary school places

Parents and carers can now apply online for children who are either starting primary school or moving to secondary school in September 2027.
Further SEND investments could be in the pipeline for Lancashire

Thousands more children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) could benefit from improved support closer to home if proposals to invest a further £23 million in specialist and inclusive education provision get the green light.
Preston invited to help shape lasting Guild 20232 legacy

Community groups, organisations, businesses and local partners are being invited to share ideas for projects that could create a meaningful and lasting legacy for Preston Guild 2032.
Appeal following serious collision in Ribbleton

Police are appealing for information and footage following a serious collision in Ribbleton.
Preston’s Encounter Festival programme unveiled

The countdown is on for Encounter Festival, as the full programme is unveiled for a packed day of free outdoor performances, interactive installations, family activities and a spectacular Torchlight Procession in the centre of Preston.
Town hall asbestos works underway at Preston Town Hall

Work is getting under way at Preston Town Hall to remove asbestos which has delayed repairs to toilet facilities in the building.
Preston car park plan resurrected

The majority of the site once occupied by the Odeon Cinema and Tokyo Jo’s nightclub in Preston could be turned into a permanent car park.