We’ve all watched and read in horror at the way millions of people’s lives have been turned upside-down over the last couple of months because of the war in Ukraine, and I’m sure we’ve all wondered how we can do our bit to help. Some people send or raise money, others show solidarity by singing or playing an instrument, whilst others still wonder if they can utilise their spare room for families fleeing their country in this time of need. 

The DEC predicts ‘4 million people are expected to be displaced due to the conflict in Ukraine’ and on 18^th March 2022, the British government announced the details for people in England taking part in the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Sky News reported that cabinet minister Michael Gove told MPs ‘There will be no limit to the number of Ukrainian refugees who can come to the UK’, but it’s not as simple as making the bed and opening your door. 

The Nuts and Bolts 

Gov.uk explains that you will need to name the person you wish to sponsor from Ukraine in order to welcome them into your home. This can be done by both Ukrainians or the sponsor online here. If you do not know anyone in Ukraine, you can register your interest in taking part in the scheme here and connect with charities who can help match you with a potential Ukrainian family. UK applicants must be able to offer accommodation for at least 6 months and, if you are not a British citizen, you must have the right to remain in the UK for at least 6 months. 

The DBS Details 

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) announced on 21^st March 2022 that, after registering your interest, criminal record checks will be issued as part of this process to help safeguard ‘the welfare of families who are fleeing the appalling situation in Ukraine.’ (Eric Robinson, CEO of DBS). 

The level of DBS check required for participating UK citizens is determined by the age and vulnerability of the Ukrainian’s you will be sponsoring. If there are only adults living in the accommodation who do not have any specified vulnerabilities, then a Basic DBS will be sufficient. If there are/will be children under the age of 18 within the accommodation, then an Enhanced DBS check, including a check of the Children’s Barred List, will be necessary on all English residents of the home over the age of 16. Similarly, if there is an adult guest arriving who has vulnerabilities, e.g., due to age, illness or disability, an Enhanced DBS check of the host family will be needed, along with a check of the Adult’s Barred List. 

Governmental Support 

The British government has announced that they will be providing funding to local authorities to help them support ‘families to rebuild their lives and fully integrate into our communities’. Local councils will, in turn, give each Ukrainian a £200 interim payment and UK sponsors will also receive a ‘thank you’ in the form of £350/month. 

As of 15^th March 2022, 138,000 people had already signed up to offer accommodation to those fleeing the Russian invasion. But however you choose to support the people of Ukraine, make sure you do it safely by reading the governmental guidelines or The Disaster Emergency Committee websites. 

Together, we will #StandWithUkraine. 

For more information on DBS checks and their varying levels, check out Vetting.com’s FAQs. 

Written by Jade Levison.