A language translation service used to support Afghan refugees staying at the former Grange Hotel in Bracknell cost more than £74,000 — and the government has fully covered the bill.
Councillor John Edwards, a Reform UK campaigner who also sits as an Independent representative for Owlsmoor on Sandhurst Town Council, secured a freedom of information (FOI) request on how much was spent.
The people are in transitional accommodation at the former Grange Hotel after fleeing Afghanistan under a government scheme; they have indefinite leave to remain.
Cllr Edwards questioned why so much was spent and whether AI translations could save money. Grainne Siggins, the council's executive director for people, replied that the £74,000 is fully covered by grant funding from central government and not paid for by Bracknell Forest Council taxpayers.
She said: "Translation costs for the Afghan families in transitional accommodation as part of the Afghan Resettlement Programme (ARP), is fully covered by grant funding provided by central government.
"It is not paid for by Bracknell Forest Council taxpayers.
"The council uses professional interpreters in transitional accommodation because residents often need to discuss sensitive personal information.
"This can include details relating to housing need, family circumstances, health, trauma, safeguarding concerns, and financial information. It is essential that this information is translated accurately, securely and in a way that allows residents to fully understand what is being asked of them.
"The council has explored AI-based translation tools.
"However, they are not suitable for this purpose. AI translation tools cannot currently provide the necessary assurances around data protection when handling personal information.
"For these reasons, professional translators are used to ensure residents are supported and the council meets its safeguarding, data protection, and equality duties.
"The council cannot provide personal or background information about ARP guests who were placed in transitional accommodation. This information is held by central government as the ARP is a government scheme."
The Afghans are in The Grange temporarily while they wait for long-term housing across the UK.
Afghanistan's main languages are Dari, spoken by about 80% of the population, and Pashto, spoken by around 50%.
The council's response implies the translation service is dedicated to the Afghan guests and not for wider community use.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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