Homes for Ukraine refugees scheme Bristol: how to help, sponsor and host refugees fleeing Russia war to UK

People across Bristol are set to be asked by the government to contribute to the UK’s efforts in rehoming Ukrainians fleeing their country as a result of conflict with Russia.

This is set to be completed under the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme that was announced by Levelling Up and Housing and Communities Secretary Michael Gove on Monday (March 14).

The UN confirmed that more than 2.6 million Ukrainians, which is more than  of its entire population, escaped the country in what has been described as ‘the worst refugee crisis in Europe since WW2’.

The introduction of this new visa scheme is set to alleviate concerns regarding the procedures of finding asylum in the UK for Ukrainian refugees.

So, how can Bristolians get involved in rehoming Ukrainian refugees and how will it work?

What is the Ukraine UK refugee scheme?

The ‘Homes for Ukraine’ programme will allow community groups, charities, businesses and individuals across the UK to offer rent-free accommodation to Ukranians escaping the war with Russia.

Michael Gove confirmed that around 4,000 visas have already been issued to Ukrainians with thousands more expected to be provided soon.

The first Ukrainian refugees making their way to the UK through this new scheme are set to arrive in the country by the end of the week.

Can I offer a room to a Ukrainian refugee in the UK?

As per Michael Gove, anyone will be allowed to apply to rehome a Ukrainian refugee.

But that does not mean everyone will be accepted, as there is a rigorous and extensive vetting process that an individual must successfully complete.

How long can refugees stay with a UK host family or individual?

If you manage to successfully nominate a Ukrainian refugee family or individual to stay with you in a room or a home, they will be permitted to stay with you for at least six months.

Sponsored Ukrainians will also be granted three years to remain in the United Kingdom and they will be entitled to work and public services.

Government officials have confirmed that there is ‘no cap’ on the number of Ukrainian refugees that the UK can offer this visa to.

How do I register for the scheme?

The UK government has launched a website that will allow those who wish to apply for the scheme to register their interest.

For more information about how to register for the scheme, visit the website.

Will I receive any financial support if I host a refugee?

Any Britons who offer accommodation to Ukrainian refugees will be entitled to a ‘thank you’ tax-free payment of £350 per month.

In his address, Gove confirmed that local authorities will be entitled to more than £10,000 per refugee rehomed in their community.

The Housing and Communities Secretary also confirmed that additional payments will be made available to support school-age children who need to be accommodated within education.

Support people fleeing the devastating conflict in Ukraine: donate to the DEC appeal

Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) charities and their local partners are in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries providing food, water, shelter and medical assistance. Learn more and donate what you can today.