Council receives third round of funding for homes for Afghan refugees

West Oxfordshire District Council has welcomed funding from the Department of Levelling Up and Communities (DHLUC) to purchase homes for Afghan refugees seeking to build their lives in the district. 


The Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF) has provided £735,500 to purchase four houses from the open market, with three allocated to Afghan refugees and one for general temporary accommodation, which will alleviate pressure on existing affordable and emergency housing. 


Giles Hughes, Chief Executive Officer for West Oxfordshire District Council, said: 

“The suffering experienced by the people of Afghanistan has led to some families fleeing the country under threat of violence. 
“We are committed to playing our part to support those fleeing persecution, especially when so many of those Afghan families who have entered the country have supported our military over the years. 
“This funding means that we can accommodate Afghan refugees with no impact on existing affordable housing stock or emergency accommodation. As a result, we can maintain the levels of homelessness support that we provide currently. The houses will later become part of the general affordable housing stock after the refugees’ resettlement needs have been met.” 

The funding comes from a third round of the LHAF, with the Council receiving £3,521,597 in the first two rounds, enabling the provision of 23 affordable homes. 


Registered Provider Soha Housing will partner with West Oxfordshire District Council to deliver the four additional homes. We will work with Soha on delivering a ‘fit out’ using existing funding and will also explore whether the fit-out costs can be delivered through previous refugee funding allocated to the Council which is no longer required for its original purpose. 


Contact Information

West Oxfordshire District Council Communications Team

communications@westoxon.gov.uk


More Articles

October 16, 2025
Our latest edition of Care Matters, a free magazine for unpaid carers, is now available.
By Sarah Powling October 15, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council is using a new data tool to help residents access financial support, boost income and avoid hardship.
October 15, 2025
Starting Wednesday 29 October there will be a temporary congestion charge on six roads in Oxford.
October 15, 2025
Do you help a friend or relative with daily tasks? Many don’t see themselves as carers but still face emotional, practical and financial challenges.
October 14, 2025
This free event will provide a valuable opportunity to learn more about the work and role of councillors.
October 14, 2025
Stoptober is back, and we’re calling on England’s smokers to join millions of others who have quit successfully with the campaign.
October 14, 2025
Oxfordshire is taking part in a nationwide survey on public satisfaction with transport and road services.
By Sarah Powling October 14, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council is encouraging residents to take steps to prepare for possible flooding as the wetter months approach.
October 13, 2025
Help Oxfordshire County Council shape how they provide access to services to support with rising living costs.
October 13, 2025
No one needs to be cold this winter, next winter or any winter. If you know someone who might be, refer them to Better Housing Better Health.
Show More