An event is being held later this week for residents to find out more about offering accommodation in Bath to Ukrainian people displaced by the war.
Photo courtesy of B&NES Council
The drop-in event, which will take place between 10.30am – 2.30pm on Thursday 23rd February, will be offering advice and support for Ukrainian refugees and their sponsors, as well as prospective sponsors.
So far, residents across the district have welcomed more than 350 Ukrainian guests under the government’s Homes For Ukraine sponsorship scheme, and there will be more arrivals in the coming week.
Several Ukrainian families who are already in the area are nearing the end of their initial sponsorship and need to find new hosts, as their existing hosts cannot continue.
Families have settled in well, with many having jobs and learning English, and some have children attending local schools. Now new sponsors are needed who can help them maintain some stability.
Hosts are paid a ‘thank you’ payment for hosting, which is between £350 and £500 per month depending upon the length of hosting.
Landlords who may be willing to rent their properties to Ukrainian families are also required.
Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children, Young People and Communities, said: “As we approach the first anniversary of the war in Ukraine it is hard to comprehend what Ukrainian families have faced and continue to face.
“So many people across Bath and North East Somerset have helped and this event is a reminder that support is still needed.
“If you think you could become a host, please get in touch with us or if you can come along to the event.”
Taking place at Bath’s Guildhall, the event will offer employment and financial support, as well as helping to re-matching families. There will also be information on maintaining a tenancy and furnishing a home.
The council is organising the event in partnership with Developing Health and Independence; Bath Welcomes Refugees; and the Department for Work & Pensions.
Refreshments will also be available.
You can find out more on the council’s Homes4Ukraine page, or you can email [email protected].
