Hampshire County Council to continue payments to Ukrainian refugee hosts for third year

Hampshire County Council has confirmed that it will continue to make payments to residents hosting Ukrainian nationals for a third year as part of the Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme.

From April 1, 2024, until March 31, 2025, hosts will receive £500 per month irrespective of how long their guests have been living in the UK.

Since the conflict started, the county of Hampshire has welcomed nearly 3,400 refugees, the third highest number of Ukrainian nationals in England.

During winter, the council temporarily increased payments to all hosts from £500 to £700 a month from October 2023 until March 2024 to reflect the increased cost of living over the winter months.

Hampshire County Council leader Rob Humby said: “We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing a warm welcome to Ukrainian nationals, and we wish to express our gratitude to, and recognise the generosity of, local people who are providing homes and practical support to those in need.”

Nationally from April 1, the Government is setting payments at £350 per month for those hosts who provide accommodation to guests who have arrived in the country less than 12 months ago, and £500 for hosts of guests who arrived in the UK over 12 months ago.

More than 1,800 Ukrainian individuals and families are currently residing in Hampshire as part of the national Homes for Ukraine scheme.

Mr Humby added: “More recently, we have seen a rise in new arrivals from the older generation who may be more vulnerable to the harsh winter conditions in Ukraine, and we are therefore urging local residents to come forward if they have a spare room or accommodation that could be suitable as a temporary home.

“If you think you could become a sponsor and welcome a Ukrainian family into your home, there is comprehensive information about the scheme online, including what to expect and how to register your interest at https://www.hants.gov.uk/host”