Help for Ukrainians
You want to show your support, do something to assist — but how can you go about it? We answer your questions
HOMES FOR UKRAINE SCHEME WHEN WILL SPONSORS AND UKRAINIANS BE ABLE TO APPLY FOR THE SPONSORSHIP SCHEME?
Phase One of the scheme opened on March 18 for visa applications from Ukrainian applicants who have named people in the UK willing to sponsor them.
I WANT TO HELP, HOW DO I?
There are two ways you can help through the Homes for Ukraine Scheme. If you know someone in Ukraine that you want to bring to the UK, then work with them to fill out the dedicated visa application. If you don’t know someone, you can fill out an expression of interest. More information will be available on homesforukraine.campaign.gov.uk.
FOR HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO PROVIDE ACCOMMODATION?
We’re asking people to provide at least six months of stable accommodation, but you can extend this if you and your guest(s) want to do so.
WHAT SORT OF SPACE CAN I OFFER?
Accommodation can be anything from an empty room to an unoccupied home, as long as it’s safe, heated, free from health hazards and gives your guests adequate access to bathroom and kitchen facilities.
WHAT ABOUT A SOFA BED IN MY SITTING ROOM?
We are asking for sponsors who can at least offer an empty room, to ensure the safety and privacy of guests. A bed in a shared space would not be an appropriate offer of accommodation for six months.
AM I GOING TO BE EXPECTED TO COVER MY GUEST’S BILLS OR PROVIDE MEALS?
No, you’ll just be asked to provide the accommodation. However, there is nothing stopping you offering meals if you want.
WILL THERE BE CHECKS CARRIED OUT TO PROTECT MY FAMILY AND MY GUESTS?
Yes, the local council will complete checks on the accommodation and living arrangements. Security checks will take place too, which will vary based on circumstances. More information is available on homesforukraine.campaign.gov. uk.
I DON’T HAVE A SPARE ROOM. HOW ELSE CAN I HELP?
If you don’t have a spare room, consider donating to trusted charities and aid organisations.
World Jewish Relief’s Ukraine Crisis Appeal is responding to urgent humanitarian needs, prioritising food, cash, medical material and psychological support for the worst affected, whether fleeing their homes or unable to escape violence.
You can donate to WJR’s appeal at worldjewishrelief.org/ways-to-donate/ appeals/1267-ukraine-crisis-appeal
The Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal is run by the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) — a group of UK charities that provide urgent relief to displaced families.
You can donate to the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal at donation. dec.org.uk/ukraine- humanitarianappeal
Some organisations are collecting supplies, such as food, clothes and medical equipment. Some are asking you to volunteer your time, or other skills.
Check with your synagogue, local schools or community groups and charities to find out more — and keep an eye on the JC for details of activities in your area.
UKRAINE FAMILY VISA SCHEME
▶The Ukraine Family Scheme provides an immediate route for Ukrainians with family already in the UK. To apply:
• Go to gov.uk/UFS to start an online application form.
• Upload a scan of your passport as part of your application.
• UK teams conduct security and safeguarding checks.
• An email is sent confirming permission to come to the UK.
• Arrive in the UK and extend leave to remain.
Passport holders who apply through the online-only process will receive a permission to travel letter and then a six-month entry stamp that evidences their right to work, study and claim benefits in the UK. Once in the UK, they will need to make an application to extend their stay (for up to 36 months).
For more information please visit ukstandswithukraine.campaign.gov.uk To donate to the DEC appeal visit donation.dec.org.uk/ukrainehumanitarian-appeal
To donate to the WJR appeal visit worldjewishrelief.org/ways-to-donate/appeals/1267-ukraine-crisis-appeal