Additional support for Homes for Ukraine hosts
Residents hosting Ukrainian guests in Buckinghamshire will continue to receive additional support from Buckinghamshire Council following a reduction in Government funding for the Homes for Ukraine scheme, thanks to the use of existing grant funding by Buckinghamshire Council.
From January 2027, Government 'thank you' payments, paid to sponsors hosting Ukrainian guests through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, will reduce from £350 per month to £100 per month.
Buckinghamshire Council has agreed to use existing Government-funded Homes for Ukraine grant funding already allocated to the Council to top up sponsor payments. This will help support existing hosting arrangements across the county and provide reassurance to both sponsors and guests.
Since the launch of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, Buckinghamshire residents have shown tremendous generosity by opening their homes to people displaced by the war in Ukraine. The Council's decision is designed to help maintain successful hosting arrangements and ensure those who have sought sanctuary in Buckinghamshire continue to receive support.
Supporting vulnerable residents and helping people access the right support at the right time is a key priority for Buckinghamshire Council. By helping to sustain accommodation arrangements, the funding will promote stability, independence and wellbeing while recognising the important contribution made by local sponsors.
Cllr Steve Bowles, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Communities, said:
"Buckinghamshire residents have shown extraordinary kindness and generosity in supporting people displaced by the war in Ukraine."
"This funding recognises the contribution our local sponsors continue to make and will help provide stability for both sponsors and Ukrainian guests at a time of change. By using funding already provided through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, we're able to continue supporting sponsors and guests across Buckinghamshire.
"Many residents who arrived in Buckinghamshire through the Homes for Ukraine scheme have built new lives here, becoming part of our communities, workplaces and neighbourhoods. We want them to know that support remains available and that we remain committed to helping those who have been forced to flee their homes.
"Supporting the most vulnerable is a key priority for Buckinghamshire Council. This decision reflects our commitment to ensuring people can access the support they need and continue to live safe, stable and independent lives within our communities."
The announcement forms part of Buckinghamshire Council's ongoing support for residents who arrived through the Homes for Ukraine scheme and complements the Council's wider relationship with the Kyiv region.
The Council will also continue to provide advice and support to residents living in Buckinghamshire who arrived through the Homes for Ukraine scheme and work closely with sponsors and partner organisations to ensure people can access help if they need it.
Further information about support available through the Homes for Ukraine scheme can be found on the Buckinghamshire Council website: Guidance for new refugees.