Ukraine relief support available
We are aware of the devastating impact the conflict in Ukraine is having. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine as well as other parts of the world affected by war and conflict. Wakefield Council is working with Migration Yorkshire to support those fleeing the conflict.
For more information about either of the schemes mentioned below, please contact customer services on 0345 8 506 506 (option 7) or email UkrainianSupport@wakefield.gov.uk.
Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme
Ukrainian guests in the UK can extend their stay for up to 18 months through the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) Scheme. This scheme allows Ukrainians to keep their existing entitlements. Like rights to work, benefits, healthcare and education.
To be eligible, guests must have entered the UK on one of the following schemes:
- Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine)
- Ukraine Family Scheme
- Ukraine Extension Scheme
Eligible Ukrainians can apply to the UPE scheme once they have less than 28 days remaining on their visa. It isn’t an automatic process, and hosts or friends can’t complete the application on their behalf.
You’ll need a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access your eVisa. Here, you can find out when your visa applies. So you can be sure to apply to the UPE scheme in time.
Homes for Ukraine
If you want to offer a home to people fleeing Ukraine, you can become a ‘sponsor’ as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
Use the link below to find out more about becoming a sponsor. You can do this as an individual or as an organisation.
If you already know someone
Do you already know a Ukrainian national (or immediate family member) who you want to sponsor? You can help them apply for a visa under the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme.
Anyone without a sponsor will be matched with people or organisations who are offering a home to Ukrainians.
Who can record their interest?
Anyone in the UK can use this service, as long as:
- you can offer a spare room or home for at least 6 months
- if you’re not a British citizen, you have leave to remain in the UK for at least 6 months
- you do not have a criminal record
As an individual sponsor, you will be asked to provide a home or a spare room rent-free for as long as you are able. With a minimum stay of six months. In return, you will receive £350 per month.
For more information, or to record interest, visit Homes for Ukraine.
Donations
We'd like to thank everyone who has already made a donation to help the people of Ukraine.
One of the best ways to help is by donating cash through trusted charities and aid organisations. Aid organisations can then use it to buy what is most needed.
Monetary donations are preferred to donations of goods. Outside of official donation drives, donating goods can obstruct supply chains.
The Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) have launched a humanitarian appeal. DEC charities and their local partners are in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries. Providing food, water, shelter and medical assistance to those in need.
The Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB) is running an appeal for emergency supplies. Donations fund food, hygiene products, medical supplies, and other everyday essentials.