A new task force is to be set up to help ensure that Plymouth is prepared for Ukrainian refugees as they arrive in the city.
Following the launch of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, thousands of people across the country have signed up to offer a room for those who are fleeing the war. Local
authorities have been tasked with supporting this process. This includes safeguarding checks for host households, welcoming refugees as they arrive and ensuring that they are able to access services such as health, education and benefits as quickly as possible.
A new Ukraine Crisis Task Force has been set up by the new Leader of Plymouth City Council, Councillor Richard Bingley. It will be chaired by Councillor Chris Penberthy. The group will ensure that the city-wide approach to accommodation, education, health, safeguarding and other services is aligned to support any arrivals as best we can.
The group will also look at the wider community response around issues such as donations.
Councillor Richard Bingley, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “This week councillors were again united in condemning the invasion of Ukraine. However, I believe it is also important that we commit to do all we can to proactively support refugees fleeing their country.
“It has been fantastic to see the level of support shown by communities, charities, and organisations towards the Ukrainian people. So many across the city coming together to collect medicine, food, and other items of comfort. And now many people are preparing to open up their homes.
“We must now stand ready to support the refugees as they arrive in Plymouth. They must feel welcome, safe and able to access the vital services they will need – such as schools, healthcare and jobs. To ensure that we have a city-wide approach, the new task group will oversee our efforts. The safety and welfare of Ukrainian refugees and of the residents and organisations who house and help them has to be front and centre of this response.”
Councillor Bingley was also keen to emphasise that no one will be financially penalised for welcoming in a Ukrainian refugee into their home. He added:“It is important that no one faces an increase in Council Tax because they choose to open their home to a refugee. Therefore, we are actively seeking reassurance from the Government that it won’t impact benefits such as single person discount. Whilst we know that not everyone will be able to welcome a refugee into their home, we don’t want people who can to be discouraged because they are worried they will be financially penalised.”
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Chair of the Plymouth Ukraine Crisis Task Force, added: “Thank you to the Leader for his swift response to the motion of notice on Monday and for taking a cross-party approach. I am honoured to be taking on this very important task and would be really interested to hear what is already going on in Plymouth to support Ukraine and especially to hear from any Ukrainian people already living in the city.”