BROMSGROVE MP Sajid Javid hosted a coffee morning at Ascott’s restaurant for Ukrainian families living in the area after being forced to flee their home country due to war.
The event provided an opportunity for new residents and host families to discuss any issues they might have had with Mr Javid.
Sponsors enrolled on the Homes for Ukraine scheme are expected to host new residents for at least six months.
As of August 15, the number of Ukraine scheme visa-holders in Britain was 115,200, with nearly 100 now living in Bromsgrove.
Mr Javid said: “I was delighted to host a coffee morning to meet with some our newest residents in Bromsgrove District and their excellent host families.
“We discussed a range of areas where I may be able to help as the local MP and I look forward to following up on the issues raised.”
Mr Javid said one of the key issues raised at the meeting was how difficult some Ukrainian families were finding securing accommodation in the private rented sector due to their limited financial history.
This means some landlords are unwilling to take part in a tenancy agreement.
New arrivals have now found employment locally and are looking to find alternative accommodation to ease the pressure on host families.
Mr Javid added: “If anyone in the local area is aware of private rented accommodation, with the landlord able to consider taking on a Ukrainian tenant with limited financial history, then please get in touch with my office.
“Many of the people I have spoken to are already in work, with a steady income.
“They just need that first opportunity to build foundations in the local area.”
Email [email protected] to help, call 01527 872135 or contact the Bromsgrove Standard news desk.
