Homes for Ukraine
Last updated: Monday 14th March 2022 at 4.45pm
I've been bowled over by the number of North Norfolk constituents who've been in touch with me to ask how they can help Ukrainian refugees. Today the government launches the Homes for Ukraine website, where individuals, charities, community groups and businesses can register an interest in hosting those fleeing the war.
People arriving under this scheme will be able to live and work in the UK for up to three years, and will be eligible to receive healthcare, benefits, education, employment support, and English language tuition.
If you have a residential spare room or separate self-contained accommodation that is unoccupied then please come forward. The accommodation must be available for at least 6 months, fit for people to live in, and suitable for the number of people to be accommodated. There is nothing stopping sponsors offering meals should they wish to, but you will not be expected to cover the costs of food and living expenses (although you may wish to offer this yourself).
If you already know of an individual or family you'd like to accommodate, you can do so. Alternatively, you can make contact with the range of charities and NGOs currently working to match refugees with accommodation; or simply register an interest through Homes for Ukraine.
The government is offering an optional 'thank you' payment of £350 per month for those offering accommodation.
Further details of the scheme will be announced shortly but you can register your interest here.
