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What It Means To Host Ukraine Families

Redditch Borough Council has launched a campaign in a bid to find more hosts to give homes to families fleeing Ukraine.

What it Means To Me showcases stories from guests and hosts who have been brought together under the Homes for Ukraine scheme in Redditch.

It also features experiences from Worcestershire Regulatory Services Officers who run the scheme across the Borough, some of whom have been guests and settled in the town.

The Council’s Portfolio-holder for Housing Cllr Bill Hartnett said: “I have seen for myself the positive impact our Ukraine guests have in our communities some of whom do settle here, finding accommodation and employment.

“But more importantly hosts provide a safe haven for these families who are fleeing a war-torn country, some of who have watched their own homes being destroyed. By showing what it means to hosts and guests we hope to get more people to come forward and offer a room to house a family in need.”

Postcards with information for residents who want to become a host are being circulated in public places, across the Borough and the Council is launching a social media campaign too.

Host Judith Grubb said: “Homes for Ukraine have been really supportive.

“They make a point of contacting us and checking in on a regular basis and the support officers are really proactive, we can discuss things and they check we're all okay.

“The application process was not a difficult procedure and went smoothly. It involved some checks but it was all very easy, the application was all very simple."

Her guest Olya Troian, who has an eight-year-old son Kirills, said: “When we came to the UK everything was a bit confusing but there was always support available: the council, hosts, other Ukrainians.

“Communication is the most important thing - don't be afraid to ask about anything you're worried about and keep in touch with the support staff."

The Borough Council, along with local authorities across the county signed up to a support the Government’s Homes For Ukraine scheme as part of a One Worcestershire Approach.

Council Leader Joe Baker said: “I am proud that we already provide 17 homes thanks to the kindness of our hosts.

“But the war in Ukraine looks set to continue with more families fleeing their country for safer shores and we need more hosts to accommodate this.”

“Please consider if you can make a difference and our team can give you more information to help you to decide.”

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. 

Currently host families receive a thank-you payment of £350 a month.

To find out more about the scheme visit gov.uk and for an informal chat email

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