Warwickshire County Council supports the UK Government’s Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, which allows UK residents to offer accommodation to people fleeing the war in Ukraine.
This page outlines how residents of Warwickshire can get involved, what support is available, and how the council helps both hosts and guests throughout the sponsorship journey.
Become a Sponsor
To become a sponsor, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a British or Irish citizen or have settled status in the UK.
- Be willing to provide accommodation for at least 6 months.
- Have an appropriate and safe living space.
- Agree to necessary safeguarding and background checks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sponsoring
- Register your interest through the official UK government portal. You do not need to record your interest if you already know who you want to sponsor. You can help them apply for a visa under the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme instead.
- We will identify and match you with a guest requiring accommodation.
- Part of the process involves a DBS and an accommodation check to ensure suitability. DBS are implemented by Warwickshire County Council and accommodation checks would be through your local and district and borough council.
- Following your successful approval, you and your Ukrainian guest will arrange a move-in date, and Warwickshire County Council will provide ongoing support for your hosting journey.
Financial Support
From April 2025, approved sponsors will receive a £350 monthly ‘thank you’ payment, funded by the UK government.
This payment is:
- Tax-free
- One per residential address
- Paid by Warwickshire County Council
Ongoing Support for Hosts and Guests
We recognize that hosting can be a significant commitment. Warwickshire County Council provides sponsors with:
- Dedicated support teams to guide you through the process.
- Online toolkits and training to help you understand your role.
- Financial support through the ‘thank you’ payments.
- Community resources to connect with other hosts and local networks.
Warwickshire County Council provides guests with:
- Home visits and welfare checks
- Access to support workers
- Help with education, healthcare and benefits
- Signposting to English language support, employment, and integration services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can become a sponsor?
To become a sponsor, you must be over 18, live in the UK, and be either a British or Irish citizen, or be ‘settled in the UK’ (which means having the right to live in the UK permanently).
What checks are required?
You must undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and an Accommodation check to ensure your property is suitable.
How long do I need to host someone?
The minimum hosting commitment is six months. Many sponsors choose to host longer, but it’s not required.
What financial support do I receive?
You will receive £350 per month, as a ‘Thank you’ payment.
Will I get help supporting my guest?
Yes. Warwickshire County Council provides guidance, resources, and local contacts to help with education, benefits, healthcare, employment and more.
Can I stop hosting if it’s not working out?
Yes. If the arrangement breaks down, contact the council as early as possible. Support will be provided to find alternative accommodation for the guest if needed.
