Residents in Bristol are being encouraged to come forward to host Ukrainian refugees in their homes. City mayor Marvin Rees announced a call for people to become sponsors of those fleeing the conflict under a new government-backed scheme, Homes for Ukraine.
He told a full council meeting of Bristol City Council last night (Tuesday, March 15) it would cover Ukrainians and their immediate relatives, including those with no family ties in Britain. Mr Rees said sponsors must provide accommodation for at least six months and were eligible for an optional £350 monthly “thank-you payment” for up to a year.
He said: “We are inviting Bristol residents who have friends and family in Ukraine who they would like to sponsor to come to Bristol to get in touch with our resettlement team. Those who come under the scheme will be able to live and work in the UK for up to three years and access benefits, healthcare, employment and other support. The visa application route goes live on Friday, March 18.
