TORFAEN councillors have agreed to take part in a UK-wide scheme to provide homes for asylum seekers.

The council will join the UK Government’s Asylum Dispersal Scheme, which is aimed at increasing opportunities across the UK where asylum seekers can live.

Initially as a 12-month pilot, Torfaen council will offer two properties within the borough for families seeking asylum.

A review will be carried out after one year to consider continuing with two properties, or to increase or decrease the number.

The home office has requested that every council across the UK takes part in the project to create an equal distribution of people seeking asylum.

Council leader, Cllr Anthony Hunt gave his support to the scheme at a full council meeting on Tuesday.

“I also think the approach is right that the greatest number of local authorities can each make a small contribution to this,” he said.

“I think that’s best for the areas and for the families involved.”

Newport, Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham are the four areas of Wales currently designated as Asylum Seeker Dispersal areas.

But with additional support from all local authorities, the home office hopes to accommodate a further 800 people across Wales.

Caerphilly, Rhondda Cynon Taff and Conwy have also agreed to an initial phased participation in the scheme, according to a council report.

The scheme was set up in March to find more suitable accommodation across the UK for asylum seekers.

At that time, there were around 10,000 asylum seekers staying in hotels in England, largely in the Kent and London areas.

Accommodation and support for the project are provided by the UK Government, while Torfaen council will help decide where the families are found homes.

Cllr Robert Kemp asked about the type of housing which would be offered.

Chris Hunt, regional cohesion coordinator at Torfaen council, said the emphasis would be on providing homes to support families in the private rented sector.

Councillors unanimously agreed for the authority to participate in the scheme.

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