The LGA has welcomed updated government guidance for councils on the Homes for Ukraine scheme, and continues to work proactively with ministers to address councils’ concerns about support for new arrivals.
LGA Chairman Cllr James Jamieson and council leaders met late in April with Communities Secretary Michael Gove and Refugees Minister Lord Harrington to discuss the issues councils are experiencing in delivering the Ukrainian resettlement schemes.
They highlighted the strong wish of councils for a clear re-matching process for those whose sponsorship arrangements fail and for those arriving via the family visa scheme but unable to stay with family members, to avoid homelessness.
Cllr Jamieson said: “While it is pleasing that the Government has listened to a number of our concerns and continues to update guidance for councils on the Homes for Ukraine scheme, as well as improving the data flow between councils and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, we stressed that there are still a number of issues that need to be addressed.
“Councils are keen to have urgent confirmation of how lone children, including those who arrive with family members without parental responsibility, should be supported, given the steer by the Ukrainian government that children should not be taken into care.
“We also stressed the need for greater clarity on the expectations of councils in relation to accommodation and safeguarding checks.
“While it is clear councils wish to move quickly and take a pragmatic approach, we pushed for councils to receive assurances and further guidance on their legal duties.”