In response to today’s figures released by the Home Office regarding the homeless status of Ukrainian refugees, Enver Solomon, CEO of Refugee Council, said: 

“It is worrying to hear that desperate Ukrainian families who have fled war, endured trauma and heartbreak, arriving here entrusting their safety in our hands have been left to fall into homelessness.

“Ukrainian families arriving here need a warm welcome, safe housing and benefits, emotional support and connection. We’re concerned that Ukrainians arriving on family visas are running into problems as not all relatives will have the space or the resources to support their family members – which is why there needs to be the same level of funding available to them and local councils as is provided under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

“We welcomed the thousands of British people that came forward to open their homes, however these hosting relationships were always going to come with risks and responsibilities. That is why it is vital the government ensure that hosts and refugees are provided with the right training and specialist support – including help to find alternative accommodation when necessary to avoid the risk of homelessness.

“Both schemes need sufficient attention and support to ensure they are fit for purpose to protect refugees in desperate need of a safe roof over their heads, and for families and hosts who have opened their doors to support them.”