More than 30 organisations have written to the Prime Minister amid concerns that the Homes For Ukraine scheme is being “quietly phased out”.
The scheme was introduced earlier this year to allow UK residents to sponsor a Ukrainian person or family to come and live in their home amid the country’s war with Russia. The groups are seeking assurance from the Government that the scheme will continue, after the Local Government Association (LGA) said it is “deeply concerned” about the growing number of Ukrainians presenting as homeless to their council.
Brits currently hosting Ukrainian refugees have said that they are keen to continue supporting the families they are hosting but have expressed concern over the scheme’s future, saying that they are worried support from the Government will not increase to match the rising cost of living.
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Groups including More In Common, the Refugee Council and the Sanctuary Foundation have called upon the Government to issue an additional winter payment to hosts. Anyone opening their home to people fleeing Ukraine currently receives £350 per month.
The open letter from the organisations to Liz Truss reads: “The UK has a proud history of leading the fight against tyrants and standing up for the oppressed. Homes for Ukraine sits firmly within that tradition, which is why we hope the Government will now make clear – to host families, and refugees alike – that their commitment remains unwavering.”
The groups have urged the Government to “be part of the solution, not further trauma” for Ukrainian refugees. They are also campaigning for a database to be created of landlords willing to rent to refugees, as well as seeing a new Refugees Minister appointed.
Lesia Scholey, a host who volunteers with the Elmbridge CAN refugee charity in Surrey, said: “Since the day they arrived seeking refuge and safety in the UK, Ukrainian families, many of whom are mothers and young children, have been asking what will happen to them when a hosting agreement comes to an end. To see many now facing homelessness, due to a lack of clear mechanisms for housing, is causing much grief.
“The UK Government must introduce a long-term plan for those on three-year visas and be part of the solution, not further trauma for displaced persons,” Lesia added. Around 96,800 Ukrainians have arrived in the UK under the Homes For Ukraine scheme since its launch in March, according to Government figures.
A Government spokeswoman said: “The Homes for Ukraine scheme will continue as the UK Government and British people continue to go above and beyond to support those fleeing war. All arrivals have access to benefits and employment from day one. The majority of sponsors want to continue hosting for longer than six months.
“Where guests do move on they have a number of options including renting or finding a new sponsor. Councils have a duty to ensure families are not left without a roof over their heads, and receive £10,500 per person to cover costs.”
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