Gloucestershire County Council has announced that Wheatridge Court, a former care home in Abbeydale, will continue to serve as temporary accommodation for individuals granted leave to remain in the UK. This extension will last for another year, following its initial success in helping 116 people secure long-term housing since December 2023.
Wheatridge Court, a 36-bed property that was previously vacant, was repurposed to support newly recognized refugees who do not qualify for ‘priority need’ under housing legislation. Those granted leave to remain have lawful permission to live and work in the UK, but only 28 days to leave Home Office accommodation and find permanent housing.
Paul Hodgkinson, Cabinet member for Public Health, Communities and Fire, emphasized the importance of this program as a vital safety net. “Without support, many refugees face the risk of homelessness and rough sleeping, which is detrimental not only to them but also to the community,” he stated. The facility has successfully helped prevent homelessness by supporting refugees to move into private rented homes, ensuring they can rebuild their lives with dignity.
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The County Council plans to initiate a competitive procurement process for a £600,000 contract to provide accommodation-based housing support at Wheatridge Court. The contract is set to begin on July 1, 2026, for an initial period of one year, with an option to extend it.
Collaboration with Gloucester City Council and Cheltenham Borough Council has been crucial to implementing this initiative swiftly. The program offers refugees accommodation for up to three months, alongside tailored support such as English language improvement and employment assistance. These services aim to foster integration, reduce reliance on public services, and empower refugees to become active members of the community.
Councillor Julian Tooke expressed his full backing for the initiative, highlighting both its moral and economic significance. “Many refugees have endured unimaginable hardship. The last thing anyone in that situation needs is to become homeless. This scheme offers critical support at a pivotal moment in their lives,” he said.
Wheatridge Court exemplifies a compassionate and practical response to the needs of newly recognized refugees, ensuring their smooth transition to independence and contributing positively to Gloucestershire’s communities.