Ukrainian refugees risk homelessness in UK – Red Cross

This is reported by the Guardian.

The Red Cross noted that despite government aid programs like "Homes for Ukraine," over 9,000 out of 200,000 families are at risk of becoming homeless.

The reasons vary, from worsening relations with host families to trouble finding private housing. The report also states that Ukrainians are four times more likely to face homelessness than the general population.

The Red Cross highlighted several cases of Ukrainian refugees at risk of homelessness:

• One woman applied to all 65 housing associations in Glasgow before finally finding accommodation.
• Some refugees ended up sleeping on the streets or in poor conditions after being suddenly evicted by host families.
• A woman seeking housing online found herself in danger; a volunteer inspection revealed the offered place was intended for sexual exploitation, with a lock on the door from the outside and cameras in the bedroom.
• One woman moved from place to place for two years, returned to Ukraine, and then came back to the UK after the war escalated.
• A family in the family placement program ended up with three generations sleeping in the same bed.

The Red Cross urges the government to reform the system to ensure the safety and stability of Ukrainian refugees. Their report proposes the following measures:

• Enhancing protection mechanisms for resettlement schemes.
• Applying successful Ukrainian accommodation models to improve future programs.
• Facilitating access to the private rental sector for displaced individuals.
• Increasing the availability of affordable housing.
• Developing a national integration strategy to provide equitable support to all displaced persons.

"Over two years ago people in Ukraine had their lives turned upside down. They needed our support and compassion, and the UK became a place of safety for many thousands," stated Sal Copley, the executive director of communications and external affairs at the British Red Cross. "However, that safety has not always offered the stability people need to rebuild their lives. Too many families have ended up sleeping rough or living in places where they have felt unsafe."

He highlighted the detrimental impact on the mental health and well-being of Ukrainian refugees.

"We need to improve the support available for Ukrainians here in the UK and learn from the Ukraine schemes so we can create more effective safe routes in the future," added Copley.

• On June 24, 2024, the Council of the European Union extended temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2026.