Guidance for Ukrainian guests

If you do not know anyone in the UK who can be your sponsor, the Government has published a list of responsible voluntary and community organisations who will help match sponsors and guests as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

The Government has published guidance for what to do if you are bringing pets to the UK from Ukraine.

You will be given a welcome pack full of information and will be visited, along with your sponsor, by representatives from the County and local District Councils. This first visit is designed to make sure your accommodation is right for you, and to work out what support is most suitable for your circumstances.

While you are temporarily living in Hampshire, you will be able to register with a local doctor (General Practitioner or GP), as well as a local dentist. You will find out more about this during the home visit mentioned above.

Ukrainian children will be able to attend school and college while they are in Hampshire. This will be discussed during your home visit.

Advice on how to apply to Hampshire schools for a place for your child or children.

For young people aged 16 to 18 who wish to attend education or training at a local college, you can contact colleges and training providers directly to discuss making an application.

If you would like support to apply, email [email protected].

List of colleges and training providers in Hampshire

For those aged 19 and over, funded English language and adult learning courses are offered by local colleges and Hampshire County Council. Details of courses are available via the National Careers Service.

The Government has confirmed that all those arriving from Ukraine will be eligible for £200 per person to help with everyday living expenses. We will confirm how this will be paid to you when the home visit takes place. Once you are settled, you will be able to apply for further help from the state. Information about this will be provided during the home visit. You will also be able to look for a job while you are here.

Government information is available explaining the steps you need to take after arriving in the UK to confirm your immigration status. This will allow you to work in the UK and claim the benefits and services you are entitled to.

You are entitled to claim Child Benefit immediately if you are responsible for bringing up a child who is under 16, or under 20 in education or training.

To claim, complete a CH2 Child Benefit claim form and mail it to the Child Benefit office.

You need to provide an original birth certificate and the passport or travel document used to enter the UK. If you don’t have these, add a note about this on your claim form and HM Revenue & Customs will be in touch.

For more information on Child Benefit visit GOV.UK or call 0300 200 3100 (from inside the UK).

UK children’s charity Barnardo’s has set up a free helpline, staffed by English, Ukrainian and Russian speakers, to offer support to children and families arriving in the UK from Ukraine.

Callers can get help and advice on a range of topics. The helpline operates:

• Monday to Friday 10am to 8pm
• Saturdays 10am to 3pm

Call the free helpline: 0800 148 8586

UK sight loss charities, including Royal National Institute of Blind People and Guide Dogs, are offering free advice and equipment, such as canes and other mobility items, to Ukrainian guests. You can get support by calling the sight loss helpline on 0303 123 9999, 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday, or 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. An interpretation service is available.

After leaving your sponsor's home, you will be able to rent a property like anyone else. If you need to, you'll be able to claim the housing part of Universal Credit or Housing Benefit. The UK Government has useful information on renting property.

You can get 12 weeks’ free bus travel from your local bus service by completing this form.

Your free travel bus pass will cover the routes offered by the main bus company operating in your area. Further information will be provided with your pass.

All children under 5 years of age and adults who are 65 and over are eligible for free bus travel in the UK, so they do not need to be included in your application for a 12-week free bus travel pass.

More details on getting a free bus travel pass if you are 65 or over