Five families who have fled Afghanistan following the Taliban take over will move to Folkestone.

The district council says it will provide housing for the families as part of Operation Warm Welcome, the government scheme designed to help resettle Afghan families.

It comes as the US and UK withdrew the few remaining troops stationed in the country which allowed brutal Islamist group the Taliban to swoop in – 20 years after they were removed from power in 2001.

Suddenly the lives of thousands were at risk of being set back decades or worse snuffed out entirely.

Ever since, the world has been shown horrific images, including those of fleeing Afghans falling from the underside of planes, and there are reports of desperate mothers hurling their babies over barbed wire fences to foreign troops.

This week, the last rescue planes departed Kabul, with many people being left behind.

One man, who has a wife and children, has spoken out about how he has lost all hope of being rescued. He says he has contacted the British government for help but heard nothing since troops left the country.

The UK government have promised to take in up to 20,000 Afghan refugees over the next five years as part of a resettlement scheme.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC), along with others in Kent, vowed to 'stand ready' to support those in need.

Now, FHDC has confirmed it will be supporting five families who have arrived in the country under the Afghanistan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP).

Homes will be provided in the district’s private rented sector and the council will work with partner agencies to provide ongoing support to the families as they begin their new lives.

Funding will come from a £5 million government pot, set up to assist councils to support households to access accommodation.

Cllr Jenny Hollingsbee, deputy leader at the authority, said: "We have shown previously in the Syrian Resettlement Scheme how we can support families and welcome them into our community and I am very pleased that we are able to do so again.

“It is not just about providing a roof over people’s heads but working with partners and Kent County Council to ensure that Afghans are welcomed and supported to rebuild their lives.”

Arrivals under the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) have worked alongside the British Military and UK Government in the UK and will be given indefinite leave to remain.

Families currently on our social housing waiting list in Folkestone will not be disadvantaged by this additional support, FHDC said.

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