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Families who welcome Ukrainian refugees into their home for at least six months rent-free will receive a £350-a-month “thank you” from the government.
After weeks of criticism of the government’s response to the refugee crisis, the Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove is finally announcing a “Homes for Ukraine” scheme.
Mr Gove is proposing that a UK sponsor – an individual, charity, community group or businesses – will be able to nominate a named Ukrainian person or family to stay in their home.
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The aim is that up to tens of thousands of Ukrainians fleeing war in their country, including those with no family ties to the UK, will be able to live in safety, rent-free.
Ministers hope that hotels, landlords, owners of B&Bs and Airbnb properties will form the bulk of the offers to the new sponsorship scheme, to speed up the process.
Those refugees who have sponsors will be able to remain in the UK for up to three years and be entitled to work, use public services and claim benefits.
But because most refugees will be women and children, people offering accommodation will be vetted and face criminal record checks.
Ukrainian applicants will also undergo security checks.
Michael Gove will present the government’s plans on Monday
Mr Gove’s plan coincides with a new opinion poll, by Opinium, suggesting 52% think the government has not gone far enough in accepting Ukrainian refugees, yet only 9% would definitely take them in if asked.
In a plea to people to step forward with offers of help, Mr Gove is calling on landlords, businesses, community groups and other organisations to offer rooms and other accommodation to Ukrainians.
“The crisis in Ukraine has sent shockwaves…
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Source : skynews
