Hosts needed for Ukrainian refugees a year after the invasion began
Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the people of Islington have welcomed over 400 Ukrainian refugees. Now, one year later, Islington Council is appealing for more hosts to house refugees in their time of need.
The council is extremely grateful for the continuation of 150 hosting arrangements for more than 200 refugees in Islington, and for all those that volunteered to hosts refugees in their homes over the past year. The borough’s schools have welcomed nearly 100 new pupils. Since arriving, some refugees have moved to other part of the UK, and some have travelled home to Ukraine.
Some of the hosting arrangements are coming to an end, after six months, or have already ended, and so more hosts are now being sought to help Ukrainian refugees in need.
Natalia, one of Islington Council’s Refugee Resettlement Officers, who helps settle Ukrainians into the borough, said: “It’s heart-breaking to see people who have nowhere to return to as their area is under occupation. Yet nobody complains. Their resilience amazes me.
“I feel privileged to be part of the Homes for Ukraine Scheme and to be able to help my countrymen and women in such a difficult time.”
Cllr Roulin Khondoker, Executive Member for Equalities, Inclusion, and Culture, said: “I am so thankful to everyone who has welcomed Ukrainian people in need to life in our borough – whether that’s into their home or the community more generally. Islington has a proud history of welcoming refugees and migrants, and it has been wonderful to see our community live up to that over the past year.
“Sadly, the invasion is not over and many people are still in desperate need. If you think you might be able to help, please do get in touch with us to find out more about the scheme.”
To find out more, residents can email resettlement@islington.gov.uk
Residents are encouraged to come forward if they can provide rent-free lodging for a minimum of six months for someone in need, whether that be a spare room or any other type of accommodation.
Hosts are entitled to a monthly ‘thank you’ payment whilst their guest is living with them.
The council also offers support for refugees moving on from the Homes for Ukraine sponsorship scheme. This can mean taking on a tenancy through a private landlord, moving to a new host, finding a home with a housing association, or a continuation of existing sponsorship arrangements.
Information about this ‘moving on’ support can be found on the council website, or by emailing resettlement@islington.gov.uk
Contact information
If you are a member of the public with a general question about the council please view the contact information on our website or call 020 7527 2000.