West Norfolk has a proud history as an inclusive and welcoming place, that celebrates its diversity, whether that’s our Ukrainian community or our historic Hanse links to the Continent.
We recognise the contributions that people from different backgrounds make and actively seek to tackle inequalities and foster good relationships across our communities. We want the borough to be a fair, kind, accessible and an inclusive place for everyone.
Ukrainian refugees
West Norfolk has a long-established Ukrainian community, which has become much larger since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
In West Norfolk, under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, almost 200 people generously opened their homes to almost 400 guests, 134 were children. They welcomed Ukrainians into their homes and lives, supporting them in their time of need, provided shelter and safety but also compassion and friendship.
The Ukraine Welcome Centre provides support for Ukrainian refugees and can help with access to housing, money, childcare and schools, working, health services, documents and much more. Run by the Hanseatic Union, a local organisation, the centre is based at:
Borough Council offices
King’s Court
Chapel Street
King’s Lynn
PE30 1EX
Find out more on the Hanseatic Union website.
Asylum seekers
The council’s role and position
Our communities have a long and proud history of providing safe refuge for those fleeing conflict and persecution. Most recently, our community rallied quickly, generously and compassionately to support Ukrainian and Afghan refugees.
The asylum issue is a national situation being handled nationally. We recognise people’s legal right to seek asylum in this country and believe everyone should be treated with respect and humanity.
Across the country, the Government is placing asylum seekers in smaller properties within communities – known as dispersal accommodation – while their claims for asylum are assessed.
The Home Office is managing a small number of available private properties in West Norfolk under this national programme. Their contractor Serco manages these and identifies which properties they want to lease and supports the occupants. As a council, we only have regulatory powers over housing standards through HMO licensing and planning rules, where applicable.
In West Norfolk, asylum seeker numbers are much lower than areas which have hotels. As these large facilities are closed by the Home Office, there will be an increasing number of asylum seekers in dispersed accommodation across the UK. West Norfolk is playing its part as a fair, kind, accessible and an inclusive place for everyone.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How many and which properties are occupied?
A small number of available properties are currently in use by the Home Office for dispersal accommodation in West Norfolk. We continue to receive enquiries from their contractor Serco for informal advice on suitability. The HMO register is available to inspect in person at the council offices upon request, however understandably we cannot identify which specific properties are used as dispersal accommodation.
Will asylum seekers put pressure on local housing?
Relatively few properties in West Norfolk are in use by the Home Office as dispersal accommodation, these were all available private properties for rent. If an asylum seeker receives a positive decision from the Home Office, West Norfolk is notified as the local housing authority in case the individual chooses to apply for assistance with housing. Applications would be assessed through the usual homelessness process. Asylum seeker numbers are currently low in West Norfolk and it is not currently clear what proportion of those granted asylum may choose to stay locally, and how many may relocate for work, study or to stay with family or existing communities.
What if there are any issues?
As with any property, if there is anti-social behaviour related to the property then this will be handled in conjunction with the landlord, occupants and, if necessary, the police. We expect every landlord to take their landlord responsibilities seriously. The asylum system is an emotive national issue. We believe in people’s right to express their views – but we must also be clear that inciting fear, hate, and any form of prejudice has no place in our community.