Supporting Ukrainian nationals
As a Borough of Sanctuary, we are taking a proactive approach to welcoming Ukrainian refugees, working in partnership with local residents and community groups.
Homes for Ukraine
In response to the war in Ukraine, the UK Government set up the Homes for Ukraine scheme, which allows residents to provide spare rooms and unoccupied residential units for use by Ukrainian arrivals.
Individual sponsors will be asked to provide homes or a spare room rent-free for as long as they are able, with a minimum stay of six months. In return, they will receive £350 per month.
Those who have a named Ukrainian person they wish to sponsor should contact them directly and fill in a visa application via the Government’s website.
Once a confirmed match is made between a sponsor and their Ukrainian guest(s), we will be in touch with the sponsor to provide more information and carry out DBS checks and a home assessment. We will look to complete this process as quickly as possible to ensure hosts can receive their Ukrainian guests without delay.
Ukraine Family Scheme
The Ukraine Family Scheme closed on 19 February 2024. You can no longer apply under this scheme.
Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme
If you have been given permission to be in the UK under one of the Ukraine schemes, you may be able to apply for a further 18 months permission to stay in the UK under the new Ukraine Permission Extension scheme.
If you need help with your UPE application, New Arrivals Support CIC (NASCIC) offers support in Ukrainian and English.
Contact their dedicated Lewisham UPE Support line at +447551137216, Monday to Friday, from 9am-5pm or email lewisham.upe.support@nascic.org.uk
Housing Support
If you have received notice that you need to leave your current accommodation you should contact the council as soon as possible on 0808 178 0939. You will get help to work out your next steps and you may be asked to attend an appointment and bring in some documents.
For more information about housing related issues, visit our welcome to Lewisham page.
Community support
We know many local organisations are eager to support Ukrainian nationals settling in Lewisham. Here are some key services available.
Employment
Facework Ukraine by Facework Group CIC provides a tailored employability programme, including:
- 1-2-1 consultations
- job search, CV writing and interview preparation training
- psychological support to overcome employment barriers and regain confidence
- English-speaking club
- community collaboration opportunities
Support for Ukrainian Residents Aged 50+
Ukrainian 50+ Project by New Arrivals Support offers weekly social gatherings and cultural trips for older adults.
Youth Support
Ukrainian Youth Project (UYPL) by New Arrivals Support runs weekly activities for young people aged 11-17.
Helpful information
Visit welcome to Lewisham for guidance on how to find support in the borough on a number of issues.
Welcome leaflets with all key information are available in English, Ukrainian and Russian.
Barnardo’s has set up a Ukrainian Support Helpline to provide a holistic support service. The helpline is available to anyone fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. Call 0800 148 8586 (Mon-Fri 10am-8pm or Sat 10am-3pm) or email ukrainiansupport@barnardos.org.uk.