HOUSING

Council leaders call for review of Ukrainian refugee scheme

Council leaders have called for an urgent review of funding for Ukrainian refugees as 9,000 have reported as homeless and more need longer-term support.

Council leaders have called for an urgent review of funding for Ukrainian refugees as 9,000 have reported as homeless and more need longer-term support.

The Government announced over the weekend it would extend the three-year visas of Ukrainians who have escaped the war by 18 months.

Newly-issued Homes for Ukraine visas will also be limited to 18 months, while the family visa route was closed altogether on Monday.

Asylum, refugee and migration spokesperson for the Local Government Association, Roger Gough, said: ‘As the Ukraine visa schemes were designed to provide temporary sanctuary, the funding arrangements for councils to support arrivals need urgent review as councils continue to provide crucial longer-term support, including integration and housing support as sponsorship arrangements come to an end.'

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