Could you help to host a Ukrainian refugee?
It is more than 450 days since Russia launched a devastating assault on Ukraine. Over 8.000,000 Ukrainians have been displaced by the war, 200,000 of whom have come to the UK.
Under the government-backed Homes for Ukraine Scheme, UK citizens can sponsor someone from Ukraine and host them for a minimum of six months. Refugees continue to arrive and several who have been living with hosts are now looking to move on (eg because of work) and need new hosts.
Local authorities continue to provide support for hosts and help for Ukrainians as as they adjust to life here and are seeking to highlight the ongoing need for more host families.
There are many benefits from being a host. including an opportunity to provide a safe, supportive environment for people fleeing from conflict whilst assisting their guests to settle into the community and helping with applications for schools, doctors, benefits etc.
One host says:
"My wife and I have been privileged to host two Ukrainians since just before Christmas 2022. Whilst they get the benefit of staying with us and getting support with administrative issues, we are experiencing something of the culture, food and language of another country whilst building new friendships. Opening our home to them in their time of need has enriched our lives more than we could have imagined."
If you are thinking about hosting, but are unsure about what is involved, do follow up with South Cambridgeshire District Council , Cambridge City Councilor your own local authority.
If you would like to have an informal chat about being a host, please contact me, Ken Dickson, or your local area ‘host champion’.
