Sadiq Khan commits £126 million to housing for Ukrainian and Afghan refugees

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced £126 million in funding to provide homes for refugees from Ukraine and Afghanistan. 

On the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Khan has committed funding to provide up to 600 new homes for refugees who have fled conflict. 

Many bridging accommodation for refugees are due to close in the coming month and to help house the 16,000 Ukrainian refugees currently living in London the £126 million will help boroughs create affordable housing for the refugees, which in the long-term will become social or affordable housing available to Londoners. 

Khan said: "I'm committed to supporting refugees who have come here to rebuild their lives and do everything I can to help them thrive in their local community. 

"That's why I've announced a new programme which will see City Hall deliver up to 600 affordable homes for Ukrainians and Afghans fleeing conflict, giving those who have been through such harrowing upheaval the stability they deserve. 

"I'm doing all I can to build a better and fairer London for everyone by helping councils house refugees through my existing Right to Buy-back fund, and I'm helping migrants and refugees navigate the complex immigration system by funding advice services to provide new arrivals with key information about their rights. 

"However, there are still too many refugees living in unsuitable accommodation. We need the Government to urgently step up and provide the right funding to local authorities, the voluntary sector and immigration advice services so that every refugee in need has the home and support they need." 

On the anniversary of the invasion, London will join with other major cities across the world in lighting up famous monuments in solidarity with Ukraine, with the London Eye, City Hall, Trafalgar Square, and others being lit up in the colours of the Ukrainian flag. 

Khan will also be attending a service at the Ukrainian Catholic Church along with the Ukrainian Ambassador, faith leaders, and Ukrainian refugees. 

He said: "On this tragic milestone - the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine - our city stands in solidarity with millions around the world in support of the innocent people of Ukraine. 

"Our landmarks have been lit in Ukrainian colours and our world-famous billboards are posting messages in honour and solidarity with all those impacted by the ongoing war, which tragically continues to cause so much suffering."