Homes for Ukraine
Following the announcement from Government in March, the Homes for Ukraine scheme has now been launched. The scheme will allow any UK resident to host refugees in their homes which is hoped will enable tens of thousands of people to flee the war in Ukraine.
For full information on the scheme, and to register your interest, please visit homesforukraine.campaign.gov.uk.
Statement from the Leader of the Council
Councillor David Lloyd, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council said: “It’s heartening that our district is now able to open its arms to refugees whose lives have been upended in this brutal conflict. I know from previous resettlement projects that Newark and Sherwood will welcome these people with the warmth and comfort that they are in dire need of.
"I am overwhelmed by the support already pledged from residents across the UK, no more so than those in Newark and Sherwood. Yesterday, as soon as the announcement was made and before the Government’s website to register was launched, the Council’s phones starting ringing with individuals, families, community groups and housing providers wanting to help immediately. Our message remains constant, to all Ukrainian citizens; we stand with you in solidarity.”
Homes for Ukraine scheme
Could you open your door to those fleeing the war in Ukraine to offer them a home? Find more details and FAQs in different languages about the scheme on the Government website.
Apply for a Ukraine Family Scheme visa
Guidance for family members of British nationals, UK settled persons and certain others to come to stay in the UK can be found on the Government website.
Welcome pack
Please use the link below to access the Welcome Packs that are now also available in Ukrainian and Russian for your guest(s).
Welcome Pack | Nottinghamshire County Council
Please ensure to notify hart@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk once your guest(s) have arrived so a caseworker can contact you to arrange a safe and well visit.
Local sponsorship scheme
A new Government scheme will match people, charities, business and community groups to Ukrainians who do not have established families in the country, so they are able to come to the UK. Information on the scheme can be found on the Government website.
FAQ for sponsors
What are the next steps after accommodation visits are completed?
Sponsors should inform the District Council as soon as their guests have arrived to ensure an allocated caseworker can arrange a safe and well visit and support moving the sponsor and family forwards (if a caseworker has not already contacted the sponsor prior to guest arrival).
Will there be a get together for sponsors and guests?
The District Council will arrange future updates for sponsors and engagement events for guests. Further information to follow soon. Sponsors and local community groups are also looking to coordinate various engagement events and opportunities that we can look to promote/share with sponsors.
Will English lessons be available to guests?
English lessons will be available to guests as well as wider education and employment support. A countywide approach will be taken to the delivery of English lessons and further details will be provided shortly.
Can the District Council support with transport for guests from the airport to properties when several families are arriving at once?
The District Council will explore the options for support with transport (from airport to guest accommodation) for multiple guest arrivals on same date/time. Sponsors should inform the District Council where transport support may be required in the first instance.
Can the District Council influence the visa application process?
The visa application process is the responsibility of the Home Office however the District Council will support by updating the Home Office on the status of applications locally. Pending applications are captured at the accommodation visits and by caseworkers.
Should sponsors have had an accommodation visit yet?
The District Council have attempted to make contact with all sponsors at least twice to arrange an accommodation visit. If sponsors have not yet had a visit or want to have a visit scheduled, please email hart@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk as soon as possible. If there are significant changes to the guest accommodation or changes that impact the living arrangements of the guests, please let us know as a follow up accommodation check may be required.
Support available
We have received questions from residents wishing to help those in Ukraine. Below are a list of charities offering help and support whom you can contact:
International Rescue Committee
More information about support for families, donations, sponsorships and more can be found on the Nottinghamshire County Council website.
Newark and Sherwood Homes for Ukraine Sponsors Facebook group
Sponsors have set up their own Facebook group where they can discuss any common obstacles they are facing. Sponsors can join the Facebook group here.