We are working closely with our partners and communities to ensure we can offer support to Ukrainians living or arriving in Torbay.

It follows a government announcement of its ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme that encourages households in the UK to open up their homes to people fleeing the war in Ukraine.

Launched on Monday 14 March, the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme allows UK individuals, charities, community groups and businesses to register their interest in supporting Ukrainians fleeing the war.

More information is expected to be rolled out over the coming days. As more information becomes available, we will be looking at the detail and the practicalities of supporting Ukrainians arriving in Torbay.

Under Phase 1 of the bespoke scheme, people (also known as sponsors) will be able to nominate a named Ukrainian individual or family to stay with them rent-free, or in another property, for at least six-months.

People who don’t have a named person, but still wish to sponsor a Ukrainian will be encouraged to get in touch with charities, faith groups or local community organisations who are starting to make connections with individuals.

As a “thank you” to people who open up their homes, the government will pay £350 a month.

Many local residents and communities are already talking and enquiring about the scheme, showing Torbay is ready and waiting to make a difference.

Individuals and organisations (for example charities, businesses or community groups) can register their interest for the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme by visiting https://homesforukraine.campaign.gov.uk/. Those interested in registering for the scheme are encouraged to read all the details before recording their offer of support.

Cllr Jackie Stockam, Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health for Torbay Council, said; “The men, women and children of Ukraine are currently living through unimaginable circumstances and many of us want to support this humanitarian crisis. Torbay is open and available for Ukrainian refugees, and I’m overwhelmed with the offers of support and help our local communities are willing to provide.”

Cllr Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Children’s Service for Torbay Council, said; “Many Torbay residents have already generously donated to this crisis, whether through monetary donations or essential items. Over the coming days we will be working through the detail of the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme to ensure Torbay is ready to welcome and fully support its new residents.” 

We have a dedicated ‘Torbay stands with Ukraine’ webpage which provides details of national agencies taking donations directly to support those affected by the conflict. The webpage also gives information on how residents can support our local eastern European community, many who may have loved ones living in and fleeing Ukraine. The information is available via: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/ukraine

The ‘Torbay stands with Ukraine’ webpage will be regularly updated with the latest information as and when it becomes available.

The official ‘Homes for Ukraine’ website is very busy, those wishing to register are advised to be patient as they try record their interest.