Hosts Needed for Ukraine Guests

Families fleeing the Ukraine are finding it harder to find safe spaces to stay as the number of hosts in Redditch continues to dwindle.

As the situation in Ukraine remains critical kind-hearted residents who have room at home are being urged to find a place for families seeking refuge.

Redditch currently hosts 45 Ukrainian adults and their 21 children through the national Homes For Ukraine scheme which was set up in 2022.

The Borough Council, along with local authorities across the county signed up to a support the scheme as part of a One Worcestershire Approach.

Officers from Worcestershire Regulatory Services manage the scheme in Redditch and see for themselves the positive outcomes for the host and the families.

Manager Hayley Varney said: “We have seen guests and hosts form close personal relationships as they both enjoy experiencing our differing and complimentary cultures, food and lifestyle.

“Unfortunately, three years on, Ukrainians are still fleeing their country which endures around the clock Drone and Missile attacks yet we are seeing less hosts come forward.

“We hope by highlighting the positive effects which hosting can have, then more offers will come forward.”

The Homes for Ukraine scheme allows Ukrainians and their immediate relatives, with no family ties to the UK to be sponsored by individuals who can offer them a home such as a spare room or unoccupied residential self-contained unit for a minimum of 6 months.

Host families receive a thank-you payment of £350 a month in the first six months rising to £600 thereafter.

Redditch Borough Council’s Portfolio-holder for Housing Cllr Bill Hartnett said: “I have seen for myself what a positive impact our Ukrainian guests have had on our communities, many of them contributing and finding work not long after arriving.

“Three years ago we saw a surge of hosts coming forward which unfortunately has reduced somewhat, yet the need is still very much there. Hosts and guests benefit from experiencing each other’s cultures and great relationships and bonds are made.”

Council Leader Joe Baker added: “We are proud to be a part of the One Worcestershire approach and hold that we can encourage more host families to come forward and provide this invaluable service.”

Guests and hosts are supported by a team of dedicated workers who help new arrivals to settle in and then advise on finding accommodation when the time comes to move on. If you want to know more visit www.gov.uk website, search for “Homes for Ukraine”