Europe’s biggest refugee crisis since the last World War started one year ago today when Russia invaded Ukraine.
Since then almost 80 Ukrainians have found safety with families in Torfaen. With the ongoing support of the Welsh Government, Torfaen Council is looking for another 15 hosts to offer either a spare bedroom or a vacant property to a further 30 Ukrainians who need to move on from welcome centres around Wales.
The Leader of Torfaen Council, Cllr Anthony Hunt, said: “Since the start of the invasion we’ve had an overwhelming response from Torfaen residents and now around 77 Ukrainians are benefitting from sanctuary in our communities with 30 children making new friends in our schools and continuing their education safely.
“Thanks to your generosity and goodwill you have already helped families rebuild people’s lives.
“The council has decided to top up the £350 national allowance to £600 per month as a thank you and to help cover the extra cost of having people in your home. The payment can be made for up to 24 months, but hosts are expected to commit initially to a minimum of six months.
“As a thank you, the council will provide hosts with an additional £500 gift card to purchase essential items for new arrivals, and provide a laptop to help guests undertake essential online tasks and connect to friends and family.”
Find out more about becoming a host
To express an interest in becoming a host, email [email protected] or call 01495 766097. For some commonly asked questions and testimonies from Torfaen hosts visit the council’s website.
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