Families coming to live in the UK from Hong Kong using a new visa route will benefit from a support package worth £43 million, the Government says.
New welcome hubs will help arrivals from Hong Kong to access housing, education and employment to build a life in the UK, according to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
Hongkongers with British National (Overseas) status and their dependents are eligible for the new immigration route, which was announced in the wake of Beijing’s national security law being imposed on Hong Kong last year.
Councils in England will receive £30.7 million to provide targeted support for new arrivals, covering additional English language assistance and support with housing costs for those who need it, according to MHCLG.
As the areas of support covered by these funds are devolved, £5.8 million will be provided to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to deliver similar activity.
A further £5 million will establish 12 virtual welcome hubs across the UK, with funds for projects like local helplines for practical advice and assistance, while the MHCLG will develop dedicated Hong Kong educational resources for schools.
From PA
