Worry over care for Lebanon returnees

People coming to Britain from war-torn Lebanon could be in need of social services but are unaware of where to find help, a social services director has warned.

Roy Taylor, the Association of Directors of Social Services lead on the issue, said the absence of a main geographical base for the Lebanese community in the UK was blocking attempts to provide easy access to practical or emotional support.

He said: “What would worry me is if people found themselves totally isolated, without any kind of support group, and without any knowledge as to how to access the health and welfare services they are entitled to.”

When canvassed by the Local Government Association, councils nearest to the UK’s main airports reported assisting 2,254 people returning from Lebanon since July.

But Taylor, also director of community services at Kingston Council, south west London, wants to build up a clearer picture of the support councils are providing and whether further moves such as setting up a website are necessary.

People can contact him with information on the type of support they are providing to returnees.

Contact: roy.tayor@rbk.kingston.gov.uk