Buckinghamshire Council leader, Martin Tett, has marked out a three-pronged approach to supporting Ukrainian refugees fleeing the Russian invasion who are concerned about their on-going status in the UK.
At a council meeting on Wednesday, Councillor Robin Stuchbury asked Mr Tett for clarity on what was being done for Ukrainians currently living here via sponsorship, who are unable to return home due to the continuing war.
The Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme called for an initial six-month commitment from sponsors, which for many refugees is now coming to an end, leaving them with an uncertain future.
Mr Tett replied: “We have a three-pronged approach on this.
“We’re looking at what we can do to help our Ukrainian guests, and we have about 1,400 within the county, remain with potential hosts, either with existing hosts where we may be able to provide some additional support, or to rematch with new hosts where again we look to provide support, so that’s one aspect of it.
“For those looking to move into the private rented sector, again we’ll have a package of support both for landlords and refugees and that will be something we’ll discuss with them on an individual case basis and the Council play a significant role in that.
“And thirdly, we’re looking to procure accommodation where we can house significant numbers of refugees who can’t either stay with a host or move into the private rented sector - and obviously for reasons to do with the war in Ukraine, cannot yet move back to their homeland.
“So, we are looking at it, it’s very extensive but I have to be frank with everybody though, it doesn’t mean every refugee will be able to stay exactly where they want to stay – that’s just the reality of the situation.”
On 24th February, 2022, Russia, under leader President Vladimir Putin, invade Ukraine. Though precise numbers are unknown, tens of thousands have likely died on both sides including civilians.
On 14th March the UK Government launched its Homes for Ukraine scheme where UK residents were offered a financial package in return for hosting a refugee fleeing the war in Ukraine.
If you want to find out how you can help, please visit the Buckinghamshire Council website.
[VIDEO: Watch Martin Tett speak about how the council is helping Ukrainian refugees]
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