Two new grant schemes have been made available to support Ukrainian refugees who are living in Uttlesford.
Uttlesford District Council has launched the grant schemes in response to ongoing Ukrainian refugee humanitarian crisis, using funds from the government's Homes for Ukraine programme.
The purpose of the grants are to back activities, events and projects that support the 'independence and integration' of Ukrainian guests and enable them to establish their new lives in the UK.
The first grant on offer is the Individual Support Grant, which is for Ukrainian guests who can apply for up to £500 to help with employment, education or training opportunities, removing language barriers, access to transport, and supporting children and young people to adjust to life in the UK.
Grants of up to £1,500 are available to help with relocation and moving costs. Guests must be eligible under the Homes for Ukraine scheme to apply.
The second grant is a Community Grants Fund to support activities, events and projects that are being run by organisations such as parish councils and community groups, or by Ukrainian guests or their hosts.
Cllr Maggie Sutton, portfolio holder for communities and local partnerships, said: "Hundreds of people who have fled war and persecution in Ukraine are now calling Uttlesford their home.
"We are pleased to be able to make these two new grant schemes available to help them settle and integrate into the district so that they continue their new lives here and become fully independent."
More information about the grant schemes, including criteria and application forms, is available at www.uttlesford.gov.uk/support-for-ukraine.
READ MORE
- Uttlesford's council tax contribution rate remains frozen
- Send letters to lost loved ones at Cam Valley Crematorium
Information is also available on support services Ukrainians can access within Uttlesford, including healthcare services, housing, childcare, school and university places, finances, benefits and food support, employment and training support and useful local and national contacts.
Many Uttlesford residents have already opened up their homes to Ukrainians, 300 of whom have arrived safely in the district.
However as the war continues, there is a need for more sponsors.
Anyone willing to host a Ukrainian guest in their home can register online on the government's website.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here