Campaign reply - The UK must offer protection to Ukrainian refugees

Thank you for contacting my office. I very much appreciate you getting in touch about  about ensuring refugees from Ukraine are supported by the UK at this challenging time.

 
The UK government has made it clear we want to support Ukrainians seeking refuge, both those who have family connections here in the UK and, indeed, those who don't. Over the last few months, we have seen huge numbers of people leaving Ukraine, fleeing from the conflict, and we will support them in the places they currently are - which is typically in countries bordering Ukraine. The Government is also welcoming Ukrainians here to the UK.

The Government has changed the immigration system to support refugees:

• Homes for Ukraine scheme allows individuals, charities, and businesses in the UK to bring Ukrainians to safety – including those with no family ties to the UK.
• Sponsors can opt in to receive a 'thank you' payment of £350 per month up to 12 months.
• 43,800 signed up in the first five hours.
• Ukraine Family Scheme allows applicants to join family members or extend stay in the UK.
• Free, granted for 3 years, gives right to live, work and study in the UK and access public funds.
• Recently updated so that Ukrainian passport holders won't need to go to a Visa Application Centre to give their biometrics before they come here.
• 4000 visas have been granted so far as of 3pm Sunday.
• Ukrainian children will receive lifesaving cancer treatment through the NHS in England.
• Launched largest ever aid-match contribution - Gov will match the first £20 million donated to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal

Thank you once again for getting in touch, and I will keep your concerns in mind as I continue to work with the Government to ensure we do all we can to support the people of Ukraine throughout this crisis. If I can be of further assistance during this difficult time, please do not hesitate to contact me.