Ukraine Crisis: Around 100 sponsors in Worcestershire matched to families

This means the county could see over 200 refugees residing in the six districts.

Council leaders have pledged to welcome refugees with a “One Worcestershire” approach and have released a joint statement:

“The situation in Ukraine has shocked us all locally, nationally and internationally and our thoughts are with all those who have been affected.

“As Leaders of the seven councils across Worcestershire, we have unanimously pledged to support in as far as we are able, those arriving to our County from Ukraine with a One Worcestershire approach.

“We’d like to thank residents across Worcestershire for their continuing support.”

Role of the district councils

The district councils are set to carry out checks on the suitability of the host’s accommodation and the welfare of Ukrainians.

This includes providing emergency funding support for each person.

The council will also help refugees claim Universal Credit or other relevant benefits if required as well as provide the £350 a month payment to sponsor households.

Role of the county council

The county council will support sponsor families to gain the relevant background checks needed and mobilise wider support that may be needed for both sponsor families and refugees when they arrive.

To help with this, the already established Here2Help service run by the county council is evolving to help link up those wishing to offer help to those who may need help or advice.

Here2Help will also become an information hub when families start to arrive and details of how to access support will be included in welcome packs.

The county council say when refugees start to arrive staff will be working closely with them and their sponsor families to understand what additional support they may need in terms of donations from residents and businesses.

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