If you want to offer a home to people fleeing Ukraine, you can become a ‘sponsor’ as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Record your interest in being a sponsor
Ukrainian nationals (or immediate family members) can apply for a visa under the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme.
Covering your costs
As a sponsor you can claim a £350 per month 'thank you' payment for the first 12 months towards costs you may incur. Please note that after six months of being a host, Merton Council will top up the monthly payment to £450. This will continue for six months when, if still hosting, the payment increases to £500.
You should not charge any rent.
Accommodation requirements
The most important thing is that you’re able to provide at least 6 months of stable accommodation. This can be anything from an empty room to an unoccupied home, as long as it’s safe, heated and free from health hazards, and gives your guests adequate access to bathroom and kitchen facilities. 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 6 months.
After you apply
The Government will contact you about your interest.
The scheme is being run by central government and is in the hands of the Home Office; neither the council nor our voluntary sector partners are able to advise on the progress with the Home Office matching and visa process. We apologise for any delays that you are suffering and please ask that you bear with the scheme. As soon as we receive information from central government we will pass it on to hosts and sponsors. We cannot provide information on the status of visas applications as we do not have access to this information.
You can read more about being a sponsor, including responsibilities, checks, and how you can support your guests.
Other ways to register as a host or guest
Reset supports and leads the Community Sponsorship movement in the UK, and is offering a matching, training and support service to sponsors and refugees under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme. It is currently accepting applications from potential sponsors and from refugees hoping to come to the UK. They are processing applications, making matches, and providing training and support. Apply here.
Both Positive Action in Housing and Room for Refugees are also offering pathways for both potential hosts and guests, they have application forms on their websites.
More information from central government
Homes for Ukraine: sponsor guidance (GOV.UK)
Homes for Ukraine scheme: frequently asked questions (GOV.UK)