Peterborough Cathedral has renewed its call for hosts to come forward to offer accommodation for those fleeing war-torn Ukraine as news comes in of continuing destruction this winter.
Can you help this Winter – Ukraine War
Since last April the Cathedral has worked with Citizens UK to establish a Welcoming Network for those arriving in the Peterborough area and has been able to appoint a dedicated co-ordinator who regularly meets with the city’s Ukrainian guests and the cathedral is providing accommodation for a family too.
And this Christmas the Cathedral community gave gifts to over 65 children from Ukrainian families and a fundraiser has been set up for the collection and delivery of medical and generator supplies to Ukraine.
But the need for hosts has become a priority.
Jan Armitage, Chief Financial Officer and Administrator of the Cathedral said:
“For every family we are in touch with, there are dozens more who are desperate to leave the dangerous conditions in Ukraine but cannot do so until hosts have been found.
“The UK government has confirmed that hosts will continue to benefit from a £350 per month payment for up to 12 months, £500 thereafter, and on arrival, the guests – who often have fled with nothing – are eligible to claim benefits until they can settle and find work. Guests are also entitled to NHS services, and children will be found school places.
“I’d encourage anyone who feels they may be able to provide accommodation, whether in their own home or in a vacant property, to get in touch and we will do everything we can to support you through the matching and settling-in process.”
Family groups can vary in size from one to six people and there is plenty of support available via the Cathedral project and Citizens UK to ensure a successful outcome for both the host and the guests. This includes a multistage, 100% confidential matching process and both pre-and post-arrival advice for refugees and hosts.
Anyone who would like to find out more can get in touch via ukraine@peterborough-cathedral.org.uk, or call the Project Coordinator, Jurgita Bilinskiene, on 07306 885214 (9am to 12 noon only).
There is also information on the Cathedral website at here.
