Ukraine: support for new arrivals

Information for council on how to support Ukraine arrivals, including Government schemes.

This page will be updated as more information for councils, including around funding, becomes available.

Government schemes

Homes for Ukraine

Homes for Ukraine is a new route for those without existing connections to the UK. It will allow sponsors, such as households, business and communities, to bring people to the UK for up to three years. The application for phase one, which allows individual sponsors to support named Ukrainians, opened on 21 March.

Those providing housing for at least six months will receive a £350 a month ‘thank you’ payment. Councils will receive just over £10,000 per person, with additional funding for schools. Further more detailed guidance is expected on data, funding and on councils’ role and responsibilities including initial payments to new arrivals, accommodation and safeguarding checks. This will also include information on ongoing support for families and sponsors, ‘rematching’ and move on accommodation.

Ukraine Family Scheme

British nationals and people settled in the UK can be reunited with family members via the Ukraine Family Scheme visa route. This allows people to apply to join parents, grandparents, adult offspring, fsiblings as well as immediate family members. It was announced on 10 March that those with passports will be able to give their biometrics once in Britain, with normal fees waived.

Arrivals under both routes will be able to work and access benefits and local services, including social housing and homelessness assistance.

For councils

For sponsors

For Ukrainians

Family Scheme

Pre and post arrival information 

Apply to remain

Ukrainians already in the UK via existing routes can apply to remain.

Responsible Minister

Since 8 March 2022, Richard Harrington is Minister for Refugees jointly in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Home Office.

LGA responds to government Homes for Ukraine scheme

The Government must continue to work closely with councils, the community and voluntary sector and other key local partners to co-design this sponsorship scheme so it can move at pace and scale."