Hong Kong Watch welcomes UK Government’s extension to integration funding for Hong Kongers

Hong Kong Watch welcomes today’s announcement from the UK Government, committing a further year of funding for its BNO welcome programme to support Hong Kongers integrating into life in the UK.

A further £2.6 million has been made available to voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations, and there will be continued funding for the 12 Welcome Hubs across the UK and support for English language classes and destitution support.

The programme of support was set up in April 2021, shortly after the BNO visa opened.

Benedict Rogers, Chief Executive of Hong Kong Watch said:

“We are delighted that the UK Government has committed to another year of funding to support Hong Kongers adjusting to life in the UK.

“Hong Kongers are facing many challenges after uprooting their lives, but this continued commitment of support from the government will go a long way in improving integration prospects of all who are arriving.

“We are especially keen to see support for young adults to whom the visa opened up to at the end of last year and are in a particularly vulnerable position.”