People in Teesside urged to consider becoming a host to Ukrainian refugees
Stokesley for Ukraine is making the appeal after a drop in numbers
Last updated 1st May 2025
Teesside homeowners are being urged to consider being a host to Ukrainian refugees after a drop in numbers.
Stokesley for Ukraine is making the appeal as they help match others with a family in need.
David Horton is from there and he said: "It's far more difficult now to find hosts. I think partly because it's less in the news. In the last 12 months there's only been like three maybe four new hosts become available. It's just partly why our energy is more channelled into fundraising because we're struggling to get hosts.
"The original people who put their hand up have either offered their home or life has changed and they no longer feel, or are no longer, in the position to offer their homes and then secondly, I think the news until very recently has been quite quiet on Ukraine.
"Since last September or October, the crisis in the Middle East became very much the frontline news warfare-type event and I think people think three years on, it's reached a position of equilibrium whereas in reality, war's never an equilibrium.
"There are enormous benefits and rewards for a host on an emotional level but there are things that you do need to be aware of and manage. It's an emotional rollercoaster for the guests coming and you're part of that. Obviously you've got to work out how exactly to operate with new people in your home.
"I think everybody that we've linked has genuinely found it an enriching experience and they've got lifelong friends, not only from the people they're hosting, but from the broader community. If you want to help and want to do something that can be really, really worthwhile please contact us."