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After months of the brutal Russian war in Ukraine, the number of people fleeing the war and in need of shelter remains high and will continue to rise as winter is fast approaching. There is already evidence of Russian attacks on critical energy infrastructure all over Ukraine, even in areas considered relatively safer, such as Western Ukraine. The UK government continues to support Ukrainian defence efforts by providing intelligence, military and diplomatic support, as well as supporting those displaced by this unnecessary war, and Rishi Sunak, the new Prime Minister of the UK has reaffirmed his unwavering support for Ukraine.
The charity Saint John of God Hospitaller Services (SJOG), and the Caritas Social Action Network (CSAN) understand that the cost-of-living crisis will affect many people, making it harder to make ends meet, but some of those less affected by the crisis might still be able to provide much-needed support to Ukrainian guests. Under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme, hosts who commit to providing 6 months of accommodation will be eligible to receive £350 to help with expenses associated with hosting.
SJOG in partnership with CSAN, have recently launched a new matching project under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.
SJOG and CSAN are offering a matching pathway, training and support project for hosts and guests. The aim is to support 600 people on their journey towards independence and provide opportunities to build a new life and integrate into our community in the UK.
One Ukrainian guest shared their story:
“I am so grateful to the UK government for the Homes for Ukraine Scheme. I feel safe here, away from the sounds of sirens, curfew, and living in constant fear of shelling. The scheme has given me time to find my feet and build a new life in the UK. I have been in the UK for about seven months now, and I have found a job and moved out of my host’s place. I am incredibly grateful for all her help and support, I will be forever grateful.”
· Matching of hosts with guests to the requirements of both parties, such as area, home and health requirements,diet and pet preferences
· Mediating first e-meetings between hosts and guests
· Toolkit for hosts and a Welcome book for Ukrainian guests in a native language
· Online training about the hosting process
· Transfer from the Poland-Ukraine border to London
· A 'Welcome box' for the Ukrainian family upon arrival
· Support during the first month of placement
· Re-matching service
· Ensuring support from local communities
· Multilingual team that speak English, Polish, Ukrainian and Russian and are ready to help
People willing to share their space with those in need of a safe place, can register their interest here.
More information on the project can be found on the SJOG website here.
About SJOG and CSAN - SJOG is a national charity helping people to lead fulfilling lives. They believe that every person has the right to be supported in a way that does not degrade their dignity. They are part of an international family of 500,000 co-workers, working in 500 centres of care in 50 countries.
Inspired by the life and example of Jesus Christ, CSAN was established by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales to develop the Church’s social action in these parts of the United Kingdom. They share in the mission of the Catholic Church.
