Following the situation in Ukraine, we have been contacted by many residents asking whether they can take part in the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
This is a UK Government initiative allowing sponsors to volunteer and open up their homes to those fleeing Ukraine. Sponsors will receive a monthly, tax-free payment of £350 with no benefit or tax implications.
At Jigsaw Homes, we support this scheme and will allow our residents to participate in Homes for Ukraine if they wish to do so.
If you would like to become a sponsor then there are important conditions that must be met before anything is approved.
You must:
- Get our permission first
- Agree to a property inspection
- Provide accurate and updated details of those already living in your home
- Not charge rent to any refugees coming to live with you
Unfortunately, we will have to decline requests for:
- Households with an open Anti-Social Behaviour case
- One bed properties and bedsits
- Housing for Over 55’s, extra care and supported accommodation
- Properties which upon inspection have not been well maintained by the tenant or will lead to the property being overcrowded
The UK government has also detailed important conditions that must be met before refugees can be housed. They have stated:
- You must open your home for a minimum of 6 months
- You must undergo preliminary vetting/ security checks to ensure safeguarding is maintained (Ukrainian refugees will also receive these checks)
- You will be visited by the local authority who will perform ongoing safety checks
If you would like to find out more about the Homes for Ukraine scheme, visit the Government website here>>
If you meet the criteria and would like to consider becoming a sponsor and host a refugee in your home, please get in touch with us on 0300 111 1133 or 0300 011 1144.
