How to Become a Host

Information about the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

People, charities, community groups and businesses from across West Berkshire can now record their interest in supporting Ukrainians fleeing the war through the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

Phase one of the government's Homes for Ukraine scheme allows anyone in the UK to apply to host named guests in their home, or another property, for at least six months. The guests could be friends, someone you are already connected with, or someone you have been linked with by a charity, faith group or other organisation.

Host families will receive £350 per month from the UK government. The monthly amount does not cover rent or utility costs. Guests must not be charged rent but could be charged utility costs if the host wants to.

How you can get involved

If you have a named person who you wish to sponsor, you should get in contact with them directly and prepare to fill in a visa application with their details and yours.

If you don't know anyone who you wish to sponsor you may wish to get in touch with charities, faith groups or local community organisations who are starting to make connections between individuals.

Those offering to host a refugee will be vetted by the government. Ukrainian applicants will also undergo security checks before they are matched with a host. Our Public Protection Partnership will be undertaking home suitability visits and will also be providing 'welcome packs' to hosts, to help them understand their own duties and how we can help them to welcome their guests.

You can find more information for sponsors, including answers to frequently asked questions, on the GOV.UK website here.

Further support

Both hosts and guests can access support from our Migration Team. They can offer signposting and information about social care, access to employment, school places and other council services.

You can contact the team by emailing ukraine@westberks.gov.uk.

You can download our Homes for Ukraine Welcome Pack:

You can find more info on the GOV.UK website.

How to Become a Host

How you can get involved

Further support

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