I was overwhelmed by the generosity of people in North Oxfordshire who welcomed Ukrainian guests into their homes earlier this year. The scheme was designed to help to quickly bring as many Ukrainians as possible to safety and so far more than 100,000 have been welcomed.
I am delighted that the Levelling Up Secretary has announced that the £350 monthly 'thank you' payments will be extended from 12 months to a maximum duration of two years. The minimum 'thank you' payment will also increase from £350 per month to £500 per month once a guest has been in the UK for 12 months.
While there will be many hosts who will want to continue their sponsorship for as long as possible, there will be some guests who need a new place to stay as the six-month stay comes to an end. The Government is therefore creating a re-matching service to enable this.
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has helpfully published guidance for Ukrainian guests on their living arrangements four to six months after moving to the UK. This can be accessed here.
Hosts are encouraged to help their guests to find a new home where they can. A list of recognised providers who can also help Ukrainian guests find sponsors in the UK is available here.
For those having difficulty in finding a new sponsorship arrangement or private accommodation, it is important that they contact Cherwell District Council to discuss their options.
