Appeal for 100 new hosts for Ukrainians in Cornwall

The council is appealing for more people to come forward to help

Author: Simon McleanPublished 4th Oct 2023

An appeal's gone out to recruit 100 new hosts for Ukrainians in Cornwall.

Cornwall Council says it's looking for more people who can support families fleeing the war there.

More than 300 households have stepped forward since the Russian invasion last year, and some have extended their commitment beyond the initial 6 or 12 months - but more are needed.

There are currently around 600 Ukrainians in the Duchy.

Serena Collins, strategic lead for the council’s resettlement service, said, “As the war in Ukraine continues, and as the situations change for current hosts and their Ukrainian guests due to employment, school placements, local connections and other circumstances, such as the arrival of older generations coming to join their families already settled here, there is a growing need for homes with two or more rooms available for Ukrainian families.

“We are therefore launching a campaign to recruit 100 new hosts across Cornwall so that we can continue to support Ukrainians in Cornwall and those who due to intensifying winter conditions will flee the warzone in need of accommodation.”

Cllr Linda Taylor, Leader of Cornwall Council, said, “I am hugely grateful to all our community sponsors, and on behalf of Cornwall I would like to thank you for your generosity and hard work supporting refugees.

“The way in which our communities have welcomed families and individuals from Ukraine makes me incredibly proud and I know we will continue to help however we can.”

Hosts can benefit from thankyou payments within Cornwall of £500 per month, and a range of support from Cornwall’s Resettlement Service and national agencies.

To find out more about becoming a host, go to www.cornwall.gov.uk/homesforukraine

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