People, charities, community groups and businesses from across Plymouth can now record their interest in supporting Ukrainians fleeing the war.
Phase one of the Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme allows anyone in the UK to apply to host a named refugee or refugees in their home, or another property, for at least six months. Refugees could be a friend, someone you are already connected with, or it could be someone you have been linked with by a charity, faith group or other organisation.
Each household housing a refugee will be offered £350 a month, tax-free. They will not be expected to provide food and living expenses but can choose to offer this.
Anyone interested in offering a rent-free space in their home or a separate residence, can now register their interest online.
Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “The people of Ukraine are facing this unprovoked attack upon their sovereign democracy with great bravery and determination. The human cost is already staggering; lost loved ones, families torn apart and communities devastated.
“It is shocking and upsetting to see people driven from their homes in fear. Plymouth stands ready to play our part in aiding their resettlement and offer our support for those fleeing conflict in their homeland.
“I’m asking people across our city, who can provide a home for Ukrainians to consider being sponsors. The Council is ready and waiting to support the refugees when they arrive in Plymouth.”
If you have a named person who you wish to sponsor you should get in contact with them directly and prepare to fill in a visa application with all their details and yours. The visa application will go live on Friday 18 March.
If you don’t know anyone who you wish to sponsor you may wish to get in touch with charities, faith groups or local community organisations who are starting to make connections between individuals.
Those offering to host a refugee will be vetted by the government and Ukrainian applicants will also undergo security checks before they are matched with a host. There will be more detailed guidance on the checks in the coming days.