Last weekend I tested positive for Covid. Thankfully I’ve had my three jabs, but it has meant I have been working from home this week while I self-isolate.
So far, my symptoms have been mild, but I was very disappointed not to be in the Chamber on Monday for the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities' statement on Ukrainian refugees.
As I explained in my column last week, the urgent need to address the refugee crisis which has followed the indefensible invasion of Ukraine, is of the upmost importance, and one I have been working on closely.
The Government had already put in place a rigorous sanctions regime targeted at the property and assets of those supporting the Putin regime and last week rightly expanded the Family Sponsorship scheme – which has meant we have been able to reunite families here in Sevenoaks with their loved ones.
However, it was important we went even further, and on Monday Michael Gove announced a new UK-wide sponsorship scheme called, ‘Homes for Ukraine’.
The scheme will allow people seeking sanctuary with no family ties to the UK to be sponsored by individuals or organisations who can offer them a home, such as a spare room or unoccupied residential self-contained unit, for at least six months. The scheme is uncapped, open to Ukrainian nationals (and immediate family members of Ukrainian nationals) and those arriving through it will be able to live and work in the UK for up to three years – as well as access benefits, healthcare, and other support.
I know from speaking with many of you how keen people across Sevenoaks and Swanley are to play they part and offer assistance, and many locally have done so already. if you would like to be involved, please do register your interest on the portal which can be found at https://homesforukraine.campaign.gov.uk/ At the time of writing, over 100,000 people across the UK have already signed up to register their interest.
The first phase of the scheme is due to launch tomorrow and will match volunteers with families from Ukraine, with hopefully the first arrivals following one week later.
I am currently in conversations with Sevenoaks District Council, Kent County Council. our local churches, and Sevenoaks Welcomes Refugees to ensure they all have all they need to play a critical role. However, if you face any issues either signing up to the scheme or registering your interest with a local organisation, please do email me at [email protected].
Our country has a long and proud history of supporting the most vulnerable during their darkest hour. We are doing so again with Homes for Ukraine. Thank you for your support with this vital national effort.
