Warning of homelessness as Homes for Ukraine scheme nears six months

Ukrainians living in the UK could face homelessness almost six months after a scheme to provide them with a place to stay was launched.

The Homes for Ukraine scheme was established by the UK Government in March following the invasion of the country by Vladimir Putin’s Russian forces.

Millions of Ukrainians fled the country, with more than 100,000 people having arrived in the UK.

Under the scheme, sponsors have been required to offer a spare room or home for at least six months.

However, there are now fears that with the six-month mark nearing, a number of Ukrainians may become homeless due to pre-existing housing shortages and high rents.

Robina Qureshi, CEO of the Positive Action in Housing charity, urged hosts and guests to have a conversation at least one month before the end date about when is a suitable exit date.

Qureshi also indicated that guests may need help in finding alternative accommodation.

“Without a viable system in place, Homes for Ukraine will inevitably result in rising numbers of homelessness amongst Ukrainians,” she said.

“The cost of living is one factor, but the absence of a viable assessment, matching and host management system means a significant number of hosting arrangements end abruptly and suddenly with hosts feeling the strain and having no support system to extend hosting.

“It is unrealistic to assume that Ukrainian refugees will move on to new accommodations when there are pre-existing housing shortages and homelessness across the country. Rent deposits are also prohibitively expensive.”

Qureshi said the worst-case scenario is that a host may feel obligated to keep guests in their homes without an end in sight.

“The Ukraine Family Scheme has also led to homelessness representations increasing because of overcrowding and resulting tensions,” she said.

“In the absence of a proper thought-out system, we would encourage hosts and guests to have a conversation at least a month before the end date about when is a suitable exit date.

“Guests may need help to find alternative accommodation or assistance with presenting themselves as homeless to local authorities.

“The worst case scenario is where a host feels obliged to keep their guests in their homes without a resolution or end in sight.”