Could you offer a home to any of the Ukrainians who have fled the Russian invasion and come Bedford Borough?
It is now two-and-a-half years since Russia’s illegal attack on Ukraine, and hundreds of Ukrainian guests so far have regained their independence and settled in Bedford with the help of our kind hosts.
But more homes are still needed, with a renewed plea for anyone who has a spare room or two, an annexe, or even another property, to house a Ukrainian family and help them rebuild their lives.
You will receive a tax-free payment of £500 per month. Payments have been extended to up to three years to support hosts. Hosts are also entitled to ask guests to contribute to household energy costs and are not expected to buy food for their guests.
If you are offering a second home, you are eligible to receive 50% council tax discount for an empty or second home.
You will continue to receive any council tax reductions, such as the single-person council tax discount. And becoming a host will also not affect any benefits you currently receive.
Here is how you can help:
- Send an email to HFUdata@bedford.gov.uk expressing your interest in hosting. Make sure to include your name, address, and contact phone number
- A Homes for Ukraine team member will arrange a suitable time to have an informal, no-obligation chat
- Once you are ready to move forward, register on the government portal. If you need help with this, the Homes for Ukraine Team will be happy to assist
- We will let you know about guests who match your household
- You will be able to meet the guests and get to know them before deciding whether to go ahead with hosting
- Hosting agreements are very flexible, and the Homes for Ukraine team is available to assist and advise you every step of the way. Support is also available throughout your guest's stay.
Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services said; “We’d like to generously thank all the people who have already given up room in their homes across Bedford Borough.
“They’ve shown the strength of community feeling that exists across the Borough, and I’m sure that will continue.”
We will also support your guests to integrate into the local community.
For more information or if you have any questions, please contact us via HFUdata@bedford.gov.uk
If you cannot become a host but would like to help, please share with your friends and neighbours. Every little action will help us to find new hosts to help Ukrainians in need.