Hosts still needed for Ukrainian guests

Stockport residents have already shown overwhelming kindness and generosity to Ukrainian guests in many ways - with more than 300 Ukrainians, including many children, initially arriving in Stockport through the Homes for Ukraine and Ukraine Family visa schemes.

The schemes have provided crucial volunteer support to displaced families and individuals in Ukraine, providing shared homes, access to schools and other vital services and support.

But Ukrainian families still need help as the war enters its second year. Our Ukrainian households hoped their stay in Stockport would be temporary, but sadly they are unable to return with the dangerous situation in Ukraine, and some hosts are unable to continue to host for a number of reasons.

Hosting a Ukrainian family, even for a short period of time, provides our Ukrainian guests with a little more time to make longer-term plans and keep their families safe.

There are many benefits to hosting a family or an individual through the scheme - including a £500 monthly contribution to costs known as a thank you payment.

But our hosts have also told us about other rewards and benefits, such as making a difference to families in crisis and making new friends and lasting relationships – and the council can support you and your guests every step of the way.

Councillor Helen Foster-Grime, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing at Stockport Council said: “Over the past 12 months, Stockport residents have stepped forward in numbers to help and support evacuee families and individuals who have been caught up in horrific circumstances forced to flee the war. Just as many of our brave forefathers fought alongside Ukrainians in the war in Europe and helped evacuees as we were helped during the Second World War, the compassion current-day hosts have shown to support those in need has been overwhelming. We thank them all. But more help is required, and if you can spare space in your home, please consider signing up as a host as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme.”

For more information on supporting people arriving from Ukraine – visit our website here or contact us at migrantcommunities@stockport.gov.uk