KIND-HEARTED folk in Bromsgrove are being urged to offer a place for Ukrainian families seeking refuge as those fleeing the conflict are finding it harder to find a safe home.
Bromsgrove currently hosts 47 Ukrainian adults and their 38 children through the national Homes For Ukraine scheme which was set up in 2022.
The District 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 Bromsgrove 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.
Bromsgrove District Council’s portfolio-holder for Strategic Housing Cllr Shirley Webb said: “I have seen first hand how our Ukrainian guests are working and contributing to our communities as soon as they arrive.
“Hosts and Guests particularly enjoy experiencing our differing and complimentary cultures, food and lifestyle.”
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.
Council Leader Karen May added: “I am pleased that our Council continues to support the One Worcestershire approach to providing a safe haven for these families.”
Visit https://www.gov.uk/register-interest-homes-ukraine for more information.
