The government has announced a new ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme which will enable people in the UK to host Ukrainian refugees in their homes. The scheme will apply to Ukrainian refugees who do not have relatives in the UK.
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The practicalities will be announced by the government later this afternoon, with Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove to make a statement in Parliament to layout further details.
Homes for Ukraine
What we do know is that people in the UK will be able to apply to host a Ukrainian refugee or refugees via a government website, which will go live later today.
You must be able to host them in your own home or another property, rent-free, for a minimum of six months. Once you fill in and submit the online form, you will be matched with Ukrainians who are seeking refuge in the UK.
Potential hosts will be vetted by the government and Ukrainian applicants will also undergo security checks.
It is still unclear how Ukrainian refugees will be able to apply. But there will be no cap or upper limit on the number of refugees who can live with UK host families. It is hoped that the new visa scheme will help tens of thousands of displaced people escaping the war in Ukraine.
Health Secretary Sajid Javid told BBC Breakfast:
I'm pleased that we're doing this because as a country we have a very proud record of offering sanctuary to people from wars and from conflicts
Households will be given £350 a month to welcome refugees into their homes as a 'thank you' from the government.
Local authorities will also receive £10,500 per refugee in extra funding for support services, with more for children of school age.
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Refugee rights
Ukrainians entering under the scheme will be eligible to work and will have access to the NHS, other state benefits, and public services. Children will also be able to attend local schools.
Sainsbury's, Marks & Spencer, and Morrisons are among retailers who are putting their hands up to employ Ukrainian refugees.
Once refugees arrive, they will be able to remain in the UK 'for at least three years,' said Mr Javid.
The government will also consider options to offer support to Ukrainian nationals who want to come to the UK with their pets.
The new scheme follows widespread criticism over the speed and scale of the UK's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
