There are some twelve families in Rye district that have registered to provide accommodation for Ukrainians seeking sanctuary from the war. The Rye group that was formed two weeks ago to provide local coordination of Homes for Ukraine has made contact with several families fleeing the war, but so far, because of the delays in the government visa system, not a single Ukrainian has arrived,
Although ministers have apologised and suggested that some “streamlining” has been done, fleeing Ukrainians have to spend hours translating application forms for the UK’s resettlement scheme.
One potential host said that it took seven hours to help a Ukrainian family fill out their application, which required them to scan and translate documents from their temporary shelter in Lviv. Weeks later, nothing more has been heard.
In addition to registration by potential hosts, homes must be inspected by East Sussex Fire and Rescue and personal DBS checks carried out by the local authority.
The Rye group has drawn up a checklist covering everything that a host has to consider. Some local charity shops have pledged clothing and toys. Individuals have offered support for shopping and local orientation.
With so few visas issued nationally, there has been a widespread outcry about delays to the process. One refugee charity has called on the government to urgently review the use of visas and waive them as an immediate short-term measure.
The Rye group is in daily touch with Rother District and Rother Voluntary Action and is promulgating such information that is available via a Facebook page. A communication structure between Rye, Rother and Lewes has been established to handle business related to the scheme.
There are meetings with authorities this week to seek answers to further questions.
If you wish to get involved in any way as a host or a supporter, then do contact us via Facebook or Rye News.
Image Credits: UK Government .