It is important to remember that none of our Ukrainian guests have chosen to be in the UK. Stated simply, they are here to escape from...
Opening a bank account
A bank account is required to receive pay, and to apply for Universal Credit, so we recommend opening an account as soon as possible after arrival....
Healthcare and registering with a GP
Accessing healthcare and the NHS is done by registering with the local GP practice. We have found this to be straightforward. GPs in general seem very...
Apply for Universal Credit
Information on Universal Credit and how to apply can be found on this link: https://www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit Or to jump straight to applying, follow this link: https://www.universal-credit.service.gov.uk/start You...
Register your children for school
One important obligation of the host is to support getting any children in the guest family into school. This is something the host should organise, not...
National Insurance Number and right to work
A National Insurance number (NI number) is needed in order to work and pay tax. A person from Ukraine only needs to apply for a National...
Finances
Achieving financial independence is a really important objective for all of the Ukrainian families we have encountered. Hosts can provide a great deal of help navigating...
Driving in the UK
You can drive in Great Britain on your full, valid driving licence for up to 12 months from when you became resident, on a licence issued...
Mobile phones
Getting a UK mobile number quickly is critical to staying in touch when away from Wifi and for navigating when away from home. Ukrainian numbers will...
Biometric Residence Permit
Most refugees arriving will have been travelling with a letter giving “permission to travel”. This provides the right to enter into the UK. At the border...
Child benefits
As well as Universal Credit, families with children are also eligible for Child Benefit. This must be applied for separately. Follow this link to apply: https://www.gov.uk/child-benefit/how-to-claim...