More than 150,000 Brits have offered to take in Ukrainian refugees who have fled the fighting in their home country following the Russian invasion.
The UN said that three million people have fled the fighting in Ukraine so far and the figure is expected to rise to four million. The UK launched the "Homes for Ukraine " scheme this week, with the formal application process set to begin today.
People can now volunteer to put up a refugee in their spare room or an empty property for up to six months to help Ukraine nationals who have fled the Russian onslaught in their home country. Research by campaign group 38 Degrees shows the British public back an expansion of the visa scheme and think Rishi Sunak should fully fund a proper resettlement programme, reports the Mirror.
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The Survation poll found a majority (53%) of the public - including 51% of Conservative voters - think the existing visa schemes do not go far enough, and that the government should introduce a humanitarian visa scheme for people fleeing persecution. Here is what we know - and don't know - about plans to let Brits host Ukrainian refugees.
How can I host a Ukrainian refugee?
Brits will offer to act as sponsors for Ukrainians who have no family ties in this country under the "Homes for Ukraine" scheme. Ukraine nationals or their immediate family members who were resident in Ukraine before January 1 2022 are eligible to apply.
Sponsors will need to name a Ukrainian refugee they would like to host. You are encouraged to find people through charities, social media and non-government organisations.
The Government will not match refugees to sponsors, as it was decided that this would slow the process. But Robina Qureshi, director of Positive Action in Housing, warned the Government is "unleashing chaos" and said refugees could die before they are matched with a sponsor.
Organisations will be able to sponsor refugees at at a later date, the Government hopes, but the current scheme is only for individuals. Brits offering accommodation will be vetted and Ukrainian applicants will also undergo security checks.
There is a separate "family visa" scheme for refugees who have relatives in the UK.
What do I need to provide?
Hosts should commit to providing free accommodation for at least six months - and must not charge refugees rent. It is not clear what happens after six months but the Government will be hoping that arrivals may have had time to find their feet.
You do not need to provide food or living expenses for your guests - but you can if you wish to. Most hosts may be charitable towards refugees but the lack of financial support could prevent low-income families from getting involved in the scheme.
Anyone offering their home to refugees will receive a monthly “thank you” payment of £350 for up to 12 months. This cash will not affect your benefit entitlements or council tax status, minister have confirmed.
Local councils will be given £10,000 per refugee to provide "wrap around support". People arriving under this scheme will be able to live and work in the UK for up to three years.
They will have access to healthcare, benefits, employment support, education, and English language tuition. It is not clear whether refugees - many of whom will be traumatised by the war - will be given dedicated mental health support.
Brits are advised that there may be eligibility checks, including visits to your home. You can register your interest in becoming a sponsor for a Ukrainian refugee here. Visa applications will open for Ukrainians who already have a named sponsor lined up today.
The Government is expected to set out more details shortly.
