Scottish Government launches £8m refugee integration scheme

The Scottish Government has launched an £8m refugee and asylum seeker integration scheme on Wednesday.

Ministers have contracted the Scottish Refugee Council (SFC) to provide advice, information, and resources to help people fleeing war and persecution settle into their new home.

A previous scheme supported more than 10,000 people.

“Refugees and people seeking asylum are welcome in Scotland, and this service will support them to start rebuilding their lives here,” equalities minister Kaukab Stewart said.

“The Scottish Refugee Council has already provided incredible support to refugees and people seeking asylum to help them work, study, and live in Scotland. I’m very pleased that these efforts can continue through the service we’re funding.”

The funding will be provided over two and a half years, with an option to extend the scheme for two more years when the contract expires in March 2028.

Scottish Refugee Council chief executive Sabir Zazai said they are “delighted” that the funding will enable the council to keep reaching refugees in Scotland who need help.

“Last year, we worked with people seeking safety in 30 of Scotland’s 32 local authorities and connected hundreds of communities across the country, helping them work together to support and welcome New Scots,” Mr Zazai said.

“We’re looking forward to building on this work and reaching even more people seeking refugee protection in Scotland, providing them with essential information, multilingual advice and practical support.”