Introduction
Are you considering hosting someone from Ukraine in your home? This guide will walk you through the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme, helping you understand how you can make a meaningful difference during these challenging times. From assessing your home to understanding the financial implications and what to expect as a host, we’ve got you covered. If you have any questions or need assistance, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to help you navigate the process smoothly. With Contend, accessing legal support in the UK has never been easier.
If you’re looking to make a difference and have the space to spare, you can help someone from Ukraine by participating in the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme. This initiative allows you to host Ukrainian refugees in your home during a challenging time.
What is the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ Scheme?
The ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme enables individuals in the UK to offer shelter to those fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. If you already know someone you’d like to host, they can apply to come to the UK. If you don’t have someone in mind, you can sign up to be matched with a refugee in need of accommodation.
As a thank-you for your generosity, your local council will provide you with a monthly payment of £350 for hosting someone. This amount increases to £500 after the first year, continuing through the second year.
Who Can You Host?
You can host various individuals under this scheme, including:
- Ukrainian citizens
- Partners of Ukrainian citizens (spouses, fiancés, or long-term cohabitants)
- Children under 18 of Ukrainian citizens
- Parents of Ukrainian citizens (if you are also hosting the child)
It’s important to note that your potential guests must have been living in Ukraine as of December 31, 2021, or be children born after that date. Even if they don’t meet this criterion, it’s still worth applying, as the Home Office will consider their situation.
Special Considerations for Hosting Children
If you wish to host a child under 18 who is not accompanied by a parent or guardian, there are additional requirements. You must have known the child’s parent or guardian before February 24, 2022, and agree to care for the child for three years or until they turn 18. You will also need to pass certain safeguarding checks.
Assessing Your Home for Hosting
Before applying to the scheme, ensure that you have adequate space in your home. This could be a spare room or an empty property. Your living space must be safe, suitable, and comply with local council guidelines on overcrowding. It should also meet safety standards, including having smoke alarms and a recent gas safety check.
If you are renting, you must obtain permission from your landlord or mortgage provider before proceeding. It’s a good idea to get this in writing to avoid any misunderstandings later.
Financial Considerations
Hosting someone from Ukraine is a significant commitment, as you must be willing to provide accommodation for at least six months. You cannot charge rent, but the monthly payment from the government is tax-free and won’t affect your benefits or council tax discounts.
If you are considering hosting, check with your local council about any potential impact on your finances, especially regarding council tax reductions or other benefits you may receive.
What to Expect When Hosting
Hosting someone can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be prepared for the challenges that may arise. Your guests may not speak English fluently and could be dealing with trauma from their experiences. They may also have specific needs, so it’s important to communicate openly and understand their situation.
As a host, you should be ready to provide:
- A safe place to stay
- Assistance with local services such as healthcare and education
- Emotional support and understanding during their transition
Additionally, your guests will have access to various rights, including the ability to work, study, and claim benefits while in the UK.
What Happens When Your Guests Arrive
When your guests arrive in the UK, they should ideally come through a designated ‘welcome point’ at major ports and airports. Upon arrival, they will receive initial financial support to help them settle in. You will need to assist them in getting from the arrival point to your home.
If your guests have Ukrainian international passports, they can travel for free on public transport for the first 48 hours after their arrival.
If You Need to Stop Hosting
If circumstances change and you can no longer host your guests, you must inform your local council. Ideally, you should give your guests at least two months’ notice before they need to leave. The council can assist them in finding alternative accommodation.
If your guests are unable to find a new place to stay, they can apply for help as homeless, just like British citizens.
How to Apply
To get started, if you don’t have someone specific to host, you can sign up to be matched with a refugee through the GOV.UK website. If you already have a person in mind, they can apply online, and you’ll need to provide some personal details.
By opening your home to someone in need, you can make a significant difference in their life while enriching your own. If you have any questions or need support along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to Contend’s legal expert chat for assistance. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
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