William Eichler 19 February 2024

Council chiefs call for review of Ukrainian refugee scheme

Council chiefs call for review of Ukrainian refugee scheme image
Image: Da Antipina / Shutterstock.com.

Local authority 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 that it would extend the three-year visas of Ukrainians who have escaped the war by 18 months.

The Local Government Association (LGA) told the Guardian the increase in the number of Ukrainian refugees presenting as homeless is being driven by a breakdown in sponsorship arrangements and housing shortages.

Cllr Roger Gough, the LGA’s asylum, refugee and migration spokesperson, 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.’

LocalGov Weekly Round Up image

LocalGov Weekly Round Up

A pivotal week for councils sees fresh devolution plans, new service pilots and key legal and political battles, writes LocalGov editor William Eichler.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Accounting Officer

Essex County Council
Up to £25081.00 per annum + + 26 Days Leave & Local Gov Pension
Accounting OfficerPermanent, Full Time£25,081 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Cook

North Yorkshire Council
£13.47 to £14.13 per hour
We have an opportunity to join our award-winning Facilities Management catering team Settle, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

HR Business Partner

North Yorkshire Council
£47,181 - £51,356 pro rata per annum
Health and Social Care Services have the privilege and responsibility of supporting people and their families when they need it the most. Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Building Surveyor (Building Control)

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£38,220 to £44,075
Join our energetic and collaborative Building Control team, where your ideas will shine, and your voice will be heard. Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council

Occupational Health Technician

North East Lincolnshire Council
NJC15 £30,024
Could you play a vital role in protecting and promoting the wellbeing of an entire workforce? North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council
Linkedin Banner