Ukrainian refugees will be able to claim benefits immediately, UK Government confirms

Ukrainian refugees arriving in the United Kingdom will be able to claim benefits immediately, it has been announced.

The UK Government said that it is setting out emergency regulations on Monday so that those arriving from Ukraine will be able to access Universal Credit and jobs support right away.

They will also be eligible for Housing Benefit, Pension Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Child Disability Living Allowance and Carers Allowance, and Attendance Allowance.

Contributions-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) are also available for those Ukrainians who meet the criteria.

Translation services will be available to help new arrivals with phone applications, with work coaches in DWP Jobcentres on hand to support people making claims online.

Additional face-to-face assistance will also be available for to those who need it, including tailored support to find work and advice on benefit eligibility.

Without the emergency legislation, people arriving from Ukraine would be subject to the Habitual Residence Test.

It means that they would have to wait up to three months before being able to receive income-related benefits, including Universal Credit.

Work and pensions secretary Thérèse Coffey said: “My priority is that people fleeing the unimaginable horrors in Ukraine to seek safety here get the support and help they need from day one to move forward in their lives immediately.”

Scottish secretary Alister Jack said the UK Government is doing everything it can to support those arriving from Ukraine.

“The UK Government has acted swiftly to ensure Ukrainian refugees arriving in Scotland from as early as this week can claim welfare and jobs support as soon as they get here,” he said.

“Scotland and the whole UK has a strong and proud history of welcoming refugees and we are doing everything we can to support people arriving from Ukraine.”

Salvation Army refugee response co-ordinator Major Nick Coke said it is “fitting” that those fleeing from the invasion of Russia receive targeted help.

“We welcome the news that Ukrainians coming to the UK will be able to access benefits immediately and for those who are able, help to find suitable work,” he said.

“With offices on the ground in Ukraine and the border countries providing emergency food and shelter, The Salvation Army sees first-hand the trauma those displaced by war have experienced.

“It is fitting that they receive targeted help when seeking refuge in the UK.”