Ukrainian Programme
Information for hosts
Applying to become a host under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme
If you have a spare bedroom or an empty home and you wish to offer to host a Ukrainian Displaced
Person (UDP), then there are different ways you can do this.
If you have made a match with someone from Ukraine then apply through the Homes for Ukraine scheme. You can also register your room or property with the Scottish Government through the Scottish Super Sponsor Scheme.
Information to support Ukainian Displaced Persons
We have a ‘helpful links’ webpage with useful information on how you can support your guests. The Resettlement Team will email sponsors who have matched through the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme a welcome email which includes fact sheets and useful information for their Ukrainian guests. You will also be contacted by phone to discuss any further questions you might have.
Council Tax
There is no change to a host’s Council Tax if hosting a UDP. If you are offering a property solely for the use of guests, then an exemption will be applied by the Highland Council for the duration of the Scheme.
Receiving benefits
The Scottish Government have advised that sponsors in receipt of the £350 thank-you payment as part of the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme will not have their benefits impacted.
Additional sponsor requirements
Inform your mortgage company that you are hosting a UDP. If you rent your property, inform your landlord and seek permission from the landlord to host your guests. Council tenants must seek permission from their Housing Officer to host.
It is also important to inform your insurance company that you are hosting a UDP through the scheme.
Accessing local services
You should help your guest to register with the local doctor’s surgery who will assist them to access all NHS services, including vaccinations. Additionally, assist your guest to register for optician and dental services if required. It is important to help your guest to set-up a UK bank account. be advised that there are online banks that you may wish to use that do not require the applicant to visit a branch. All UDP’s will need a bank account to claim any benefits and the one-off £200 payment.
Information in relation to benefits can be found at – Welfare Support
Proof of Address
Contact your Resettlement Officer and if required, they can provide a proof of address letter for your guests.
£200 Resettlement Grant payment
UDP’s who arrive to the UK are entitled to claim a £200 Resettlement Grant payment from the Local Authority.
‘Thank-you’ payment
Sponsors are eligible to claim a £350 ‘thank-you’ payment from the Government for hosting. note these payments are paid monthly in arrears and are contingent with your disclosure clearance and property inspection being carried out successfully.
Sim Cards
Phone providers such as Vodafone, Three and Tesco are all offering free data and packages for UDP’s. Visit your local branch to find out more and how to obtain one.
Enrolling in a local school
When families who have arrived from Ukraine are ready to send their children to school in Highland, they should approach their local school.
information on enrolling in Primary and Secondary
Early Learning and Childcare
All 3 to 5 year olds are entitled to 1140 hours per year of free early learning and childcare (ELC) at a Local Authority setting or partner provider. Our website has information on how to register and further advice.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP card)
The form below allows UDP’s to apply for their BRP to extend their stay in the UK.
Immediate proof of the right to work or claim benefits is provided by the endorsement stamp given at the UK border when guests arrive into the UK.