Wyre Forest welcomes first Ukrainian arrivals under Homes for Ukraine scheme
News release issued:
The first visa applications from Ukrainians who will be living with sponsors in Wyre Forest have been approved. As of Thursday evening (24 March), about 30 individuals have been cleared to arrive. They will be living with approximately 10 sponsor households in the district. The position is changing daily and the numbers are expected to increase swiftly over the coming days.
The District Council is working closely with Worcestershire County Council and other partner organisations. They are working to deliver an effective wrap around service for the Ukrainian guests. This is in line with the Government guidance.
At the moment, the District Council's main role is to carry out checks on the suitability of the accommodation and the welfare of the Ukrainians. This includes providing emergency cash support for each person. The council will also help them claim Universal Credit or other relevant benefits, if required. The Ukrainians have been issued with visas for three years. They have the right to work and have access to the full range of public services.
Another important role for the District Council is to provide the £350 a month “thank you” payment to sponsor households. They will receive it as long as Ukrainian guests continue to be accommodated. It is payable for a maximum of 12 months. The first payment will only be made when the accommodation has been inspected. Those aged 16 or over in the sponsor household also have to be checked with the disclosure and barring service by the County Council.
Councillor Helen Dyke, Leader of the Council, said:
“I am very pleased that the first Ukrainians taking refuge from the war in their homeland have arrived in Wyre Forest. I am proud of how the Council’s housing, revenues and benefits and finance teams have worked very quickly to make sure that we are ready to welcome our newest residents. We are prepared to make sure they are appropriately supported as they settle into life in Wyre Forest.
“All the Council’s costs, including the payments being made to sponsors and their guests, are being met by Government funding for the Homes for Ukraine scheme. There will be no impact on the Council’s finances.”
Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor by offering accommodation should register at Homes for Ukraine website . Individuals, businesses or other organisations who wish to offer help (other than accommodation) can contact Here2Help website or call 01905 768053.