More than 100,000 people from Ukraine have arrived in the UK under the Ukraine Family Scheme and Homes for Ukraine Scheme

After more than 100,000 Ukrainians have now been welcomed into homes all throughout the UK after entering under the two Ukraine visa programmes, the government has commended the British public for their kindness and goodwill today.

The number was achieved as the Homes for Ukraine Scheme began accepting fresh applications from juveniles and youngsters under the age of 18 who wish to immigrate to the UK alone.

The Ukrainian government has made adjustments that will allow a child to apply for a visa if they have documentation of parental consent as a result of listening to Ukrainian parents and working closely with their national government.

Since the beginning of the spring, the government has streamlined the visa application process to help as many people as possible reach safety.

It has also collaborated closely with councils and community organisations to make sure that Ukrainians are fully supported as they settle into life in the UK.

Maria Kartashova, who resides in Surrey with her host, said:

I want to personally express my gratitude to all Britons and my sponsors.

You are providing more than just assistance to the Ukrainian people.

You assist us at each stage, invest your time and effort, pay attention, and show concern. I am so appreciative that words cannot express it.

Lord Harrington, minister for refugees, said:

Without kind citizens around the nation opening their homes, we would not be able to welcome 100,000 people from Ukraine.

Recognizing the altruistic efforts of the people to assist Ukrainians in integrating into their communities is crucial.

In order to continue providing protection to as many Ukrainians as possible, it is crucial that we took the time to get this right.

We recognise that families are having to make difficult decisions about leaving their homes.

Greg Clark, the secretary of state for levelling up, housing, and communities, stated:

I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has offered their houses to persons in need, since 100,000 people have now arrived from Ukraine.

The 100,000 painful tales of families torn apart and forced to abandon their dads, sons, and brothers lay behind this milestone, though.

Because of this, we desire stability and peace in Ukraine so that its heroic citizens can return home in safety.

The Ukraine visa application procedure is now entirely digital, allowing candidates to submit their biometrics via an app, including uploading a photo, and provide digital proof of their eligibility for benefits and services, including Universal Credit, in the UK.

The government now processes applications as swiftly as possible, aiming for within 48 hours where possible.

Changes include streamlining the application form and increasing staff numbers; at its peak, 500 workers were processing visas.

Ukrainians enjoy the same rights to employment, benefits, and public services, such as healthcare and education, as do British citizens. For individuals who want to stay in the UK, this will still be the case.

The programmes have advanced thanks to a concerted national effort, with devolved governments, charities, religion organisations, businesses, municipalities, and communities all cooperating to offer much-needed support to individuals arriving from Ukraine.

For those Ukrainians who are arriving in the UK and are prepared to work, we welcome job offers from companies, and we have established a specialised team within the Department for Work and Pensions to support employers who are providing work.

In order to ensure that Ukrainians arriving through either scheme are welcomed in the UK, 29 Welcome Points at major entrance points, including ports, train stations, and airports, across the nation offer meet-and-greet arrangements in addition to immediate humanitarian aid.

Under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme, the government is giving councils £10,500 per individual to help them support families as they rebuild their lives and completely reintegrate into their communities.

The £10,500 includes a one-time payment of £200 that authorities will provide to each visitor from Ukraine upon arrival as well as a monthly “thank you” payment of £350 to sponsors for their expenses related to helping out.

The government continues to collaborate closely with the voluntary and community sector, which supports the Homes for Ukraine programme, including by utilising matching services provided by Recognized Providers to assist more Ukrainians in connecting with sponsors in the UK in a secure and long-lasting manner.