UK to cut payments for hosting Ukrainian refugees, The Guardian reports
Photo: Ukrainian refugees in the UK will face cuts to support (Getty Images)
The UK will cut funding for the Homes for Ukraine support program by 70%, resulting in a significant reduction in monthly payments to sponsors, The Guardian reports.
According to the outlet, the UK government has decided to reduce the monthly "thank you" payments to families hosting Ukrainian refugees from £350 to £100.
In addition, payments to local authorities to cover costs associated with running the program will be cut from £5,900 to £3,300. The changes are due to take effect on January 1, 2027.
As an alternative, the British authorities are offering hosts the option of becoming landlords and charging refugees rent.
The UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government explained that the changes are part of the program's transition from an emergency response to a more established system.
"The UK’s commitment to supporting Ukrainians is unwavering and the Homes for Ukraine scheme remains open. These changes are designed to secure the scheme’s long-term future while maintaining support for sponsors, guests and councils," a ministry spokesperson said.
At the same time, both Ukrainians and hosts have expressed concerns.
For many refugees, particularly elderly people or those with health problems, losing free accommodation creates a risk of homelessness because they cannot afford to pay rent on their own.
The Homes for Ukraine scheme was launched following Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Since then, it has supported 181,000 of the 234,000 Ukrainians who sought refuge in the UK. Overall, the British government has allocated more than £1.81 billion to the initiative.
Temporary protection for Ukrainians in Europe
Earlier, European countries have recently been changing the conditions and rules for Ukrainian refugees to stay in their countries.
In particular, the number of Ukrainians under temporary protection in Poland has fallen by around 40,000.
Ukraine's Ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bodnar explained that Ukrainians are losing their PESEL UKR status due to changes in Polish legislation, including the transition to CUKR residence cards, as well as the generally unfavorable environment. However, this does not mean they are automatically leaving the country.
In addition, Ukraine's Foreign Ministry noted that Ukrainian women in the EU are advised to carry proof of having crossed the border.
