Cllr Parkin said, ‘We are aware of the sacrifices those who worked alongside the British and Americans in Afghanistan have made in the attempt to rid the world of a virulent strain of terrorism. It is incumbent on us to recognise that and do our bit to help them find a safe haven.’


Cllr Humphreys said, ‘We know it is a very perilous situation for many in Afghanistan right now and our forces are doing incredible work to airlift as many as possible to safety here in the UK. As plans develop, we in Worthing will be ready to provide shelter to those we can.’


In total, the UK hopes to help 6,000 to 7,000 British nationals and eligible Afghan staff to leave. This group includes Afghans who worked for the British government, as well as interpreters, cultural advisers and embassy staff. Others eligible will be those deemed to be at high and imminent risk especially women and girls. 


The new government scheme could be similar to that used to help Syrian refugees. Around 20,000 refugees who fled the conflict in Syria have been resettled in the UK under the scheme since it was launched in 2014. A similar number of Afghans are expected to be settled in the UK.


Under the Syrian scheme local authorities across the country were asked to sign up to help rehouse refugees. Adur & Worthing Councils have already indicated they will participate in any new scheme