British Red Cross responds to the Home Secretary’s announcement on resettlement schemes for refugees.

On 28 September 2026, the Home Secretary announced the reopening of the UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS) for new referrals, with around a quarter of referrals expected to be Afghan women and girls and Palestinian refugees.

Responding to the Home Secretary’s announcement on resettlement schemes for refugees, Mubeen Bhutta, British Red Cross Director of Policy, Research and Advocacy, said:

“The UK Resettlement Scheme is a vital safe route for people fleeing some of the most dangerous situations in the world. Reopening the scheme, as well as creating new sponsorship schemes, will bring hope to people seeking safety.  

“Another important safe route is refugee family reunion, which has been suspended for over a year now. While this remains closed, we continue to see people kept apart from their loved ones. The Government should set out when family reunion will reopen so that families can reunite and rebuild their lives together.”

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About the British Red Cross

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk