Hosting guests under the Homes for Ukraine scheme
Change to 'thank you' payments
As of 1 October 2024, close family members of Homes for Ukraine visa holders are not eligible to start claiming thank you payments. This applies to new arrivals and those who are already in the UK and move in with a close family member. See Hosting someone already in the UK - GOV.UK
5. Support for hosts
Monthly thank you payments
Once your guests have arrived, your local District or Borough Council will contact you complete the host payments application form.
Hosts are paid monthly. You will receive £350 per month.
You will become eligible for monthly payments once your guests have been with you for one month. Payments are made for the whole month for the duration of your guests HfU and UPE visa.
Please note: close family members of Homes for Ukraine visa holders are not eligible to start claiming thank you payments. This applies to new arrivals and those who are already in the UK and move in with a close family member. See Hosting someone already in the UK - GOV.UK
Guest absences
Sometimes guests will leave for a short period, such as to go on holiday, visit friends and family, or for employment opportunities.
If the guests are absent for a less than a calendar month, your host payment is not affected and you need take no action.
If they are absent for a calendar month or more, you will not be eligible for a payment for that month. You should inform us of the situation. Monthly thank you payments will resume once the guests have returned to live with you.
If guests leave for a planned period but do not return as expected, you should let us know as soon as you become aware. Let us know by email: Ukraine@eastsussex.gov.uk .
If you arrange to host a guest without the agreement of the local council then you won’t be able to claim a payment. This is because it will be outside of the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.
Other support
You can tap into a lot of support, both through local councils and the community.
Homes for Ukraine contact centre
Can help with:
- host payments
- safeguarding concerns
- signposting to more help
Email: ukraine@eastsussex.gov.uk or phone: 01273 337010.
District and Borough Councils
Can offer support and advice about:
- benefits
- housing issues
- transport
- local services
Contact details for your district or borough council.
Community and voluntary groups
They offer support for hosts and guests.
Support to prevent breakdown of hosting relationships
The Sustainment Service run by Brighton Housing Trust (BHT) can support you and your guests if you start to find your relationship is becoming difficult.
More information
Further information and resources to help you in your hosting journey.