THERE are hundreds of people in the North East expected to open their homes to Ukrainian families once a new Government scheme goes live - and here's how you can apply.
The new "Homes for Ukraine" scheme is set to allow homeowners, landlords, charities and businesses to host a family or individual from the crisis-hit country.
Paying the sponsor £350 a month in return, the scheme will allow people in the UK to nominate a named Ukrainian or named Ukrainian family to live with them.
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The sponsor is then expected to allow them to stay for at least six months - and this can either be in their own home or in a seperate property that they own.
When does it go live and what's actually involved?
The scheme goes live on Friday, March 18, and is open to those who know Ukrainian people personally and those who do not.
From this date, the Government will start accepting visa applications from Ukrainians and immediate family who already have people willing to sponsor them.
Those who do not know anyone personally fleeing Ukraine but are willing to offer their home can also apply and will be able to record their interest in being a sponsor.
What type of home will I have to provide?
According to the Government website, those who have a "spare" room or separate self-contained accommodation are able to come forward.
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A statement says: "The accommodation must be available for at least six months, fit for people to live in, and suitable for the number of people to be accommodated."
It also states that you do not have to provide meals, although there is "nothing" stopping sponsors offering meals if they "wish" to.
A statement on this says: "You will not be expected to cover the costs of food and living expenses (although you may wish to offer this)."
How will I get paid the £350 a month?
The Government states that an optional payment of £350 per month is a "thank you" to people who are accommodating Ukrainians and their families.
It says: " We appreciate people’s generosity and do know that there will be costs associated with helping out, and so we are offering an optional ‘thank you’ payment of £350 per month to people who can accommodate one or more household (subject to the accommodation they have)."
It states that you should not charge any rent and that the payment is limited to one per residential address, with payments continuing for up to 12 months.
It does not stipulate how this will be paid, but it states this will be paid in arrears.
How to apply
Although the scheme is not yet live, you can already tell the Government you want to help and register your interest by visiting the following website here.
Are you in the North East and hoping to host a Ukrainian family?
We'd love to know! Get in touch with your name, number and location!
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