East Devon needs 50 hosts for Ukrainians

Appeal on anniversary of war

East Devon District Council is appalling for more host families for refugees escaping the war in Ukraine.

It is marking the first anniversary of the Russian anniversary invasion with a request for 50 more people to take part in the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

If you have a spare room, annex, Airbnb, a house or any form of accommodation you are willing to offer to Ukrainian guests seeking sanctuary, you will receive £500 a month in thank you payments.

Pet-friendly households are especially appreciated for families who escaped with their animals.

Hosts are especially needed in Exmouth and areas close to Exeter such as Cranbrook, Broadclyst and Ottery St Mary, as well as further afield in key towns including Sidmouth, Honiton, Seaton and Axminster.

The council's environmental health team carry out home inspections and take particular care to make sure guests and hosts are well matched.

The EDDC team also provide follow up support for hosts and Ukrainian guests, including guidance on applying for Universal Credit, finding a job, debt management, registering with schools and doctors, as well as promoting events to warmly integrate them into the community.

Councillor Paul Arnott, leader of the council, said:“We hope that all our Ukrainian guests are settling into East Devon well, and are proud that so many of East Devon’s householders are welcoming them with open arms.

“It has been a tremendous honour to be part of EDDC’s response to this awful human tragedy. We are visiting each household and hearing not just the terrible stories of how people arrived here from Ukraine, but also stories of kindness and generosity that they have experienced.”

More than 300 refugees are currently hosted in East Devon.

If you would like to learn more about being a host, register your interest in a questions and answer session by emailing homesforukrainesupport@eastdevon.gov.uk.

To register your interest in an online information session for potential hosts on 29 March 6pm-7:30pm contact homesforukrainesupport@eastdevon.gov.uk.

To find out more information about helping Ukrainian guests or to express your interest in being a host please visit www.eastdevon.gov.uk/ukraine-support.