A GUIDE FOR HOMES FOR UKRAINE HOSTS
Hosting is an amazing thing to do. It is also a little daunting! The following has been compiled to help hosts navigate the first few weeks/months with their guests. It will be updated as new and relevant information becomes available.
UK Phone Number
You can get a free sim card from a number of places: The Harpenden Trust, The Red Cross and the 3 shop in St Albans It is essential for guests to have a UK phone number to receive their interim payments and for most applications.
UK Bank Account
There are a number of options including: Monza, Starling (both online), Nationwide and HSBC. Guests will need a bank account to apply for universal credit and for future employment.
£200 Interim Payment
On arrival email H4Ukraine@hertfordshire.gov.uk
Providing the following information
- Full name and DOB
- Date visa issued
- Date arrive at your home
- Email and mobile number
The payment will be sent directly to guests and will allow them to buy essentials when they arrive. This money does not need to be paid back.
Harpenden Wines on Station Road can make Paypoint cash payments and also arrange to transfer the money directly into a UK bank account.
Biometric residence permit (BRP)
It is necessary for guests to complete their visa application in the UK by providing their biometric information. You can do this online and an appointment can be made for you to visit a local centre (our nearest is Luton). You need to make an appointment for each applicants including children: one appointment = one person.
Apply online:
Universal Credit
All Ukrainians arriving in the Uk are entitled to claim UC until they find work.
Apply online:
Once the application is made the DWP will give the claimant a call and /or request a visit to the local Job Centre (6 Bricket Road, St Albans, AL1 3JU). An Interpreter can be requested.
The first payment of Universal Credit will be made approximately 5-6 weeks after applying.
National Insurance Number
You need to apply online:
You can ask the Job Centre to initiate an application on your behalf when you attend your Universal Credit Appointment. NB This does not complete the application process - you will be sent a link to complete your application. National Insurance Numbers are essential for both claiming benefits and working. Ukrainian applications are being prioritised but may still take some weeks to be processed.
Child Benefit
Anyone with responsibility for an under 16 year old earning less than £50,000 is entitled to Child Benefit. The application is available online but will need to be printed and posted. They ask for original documents to be sent. We have been advised by the Child Benefit Office that duplicates are currently acceptable for Ukrainian applicants.
Applications need to be posted. You can find the forms at:
Red Cross Assistance
The Red Cross is offering assistance for newly arriving Ukrainians. You can call the Red Cross (0808 1963651) and apply for both sim cards and £50 one-off payment.
Register with a GP
Contact your GP for a registration form All guests are entitled to use the NHS including access to a GP.
School Places
All Ukrainian children are entitled to a school place. Applications can be made prior to arrival in the UK and can be made at any time during the school year. Applications made during the summer holidays may be delayed.
You can apply online for school places via Herts County Council:
Educational support
The James Marshall Foundation offer grants towards school uniforms, laptops/digital devices, residential trips, extra-curricular activities, interview clothing, equipment for work, etc for children and young people (aged under 25 years) who have moved into our catchment area. You can make an online application:
The Harpenden Trust can also help with school expenses including the cost of day trips. You can contact them on: 01582 460457 or admin@theharpendentrust.org.uk
English language lessons
Not surprisingly there is a great demand for English lessons. Several local organisations are offering lessons but are currently all full. We will update this section as and when we hear of new classes. If you are offering or know of anyone offering free classes please let us know: office@highstreet.church.
Register with a Dentist
There are number of local dentists accepting NHS patients Guests are entitled to free NHS dental treatment
Sebby’s corner
This is a charity supporting Ukrainians arriving in the UK: giving away essentials such as clothes, shoes, coats, formula, nappies, toiletries and baby equipment, as well as some feel-good items like make up and toys to help the families feel at home and settled.
You can find information online at Sebby's Corner and can book an appointment to visit their hub in Borehamwood
Free Public Transport
Arriva Buses are offering free travel for Ukrainians. You will need to contact their Customer Service Team via email with the Names, Ages (if under 18), Area of travel and Route number if you know it and attach a copy of their passport(s).
Email: customerservice@arriva.co.uk
Further information for Sponsors
You can find further information to help you through your hosting journey online. The following links have proved particularly helpful: