Super Sponsor Scheme and Homes for Ukraine: guidance for hosts

Terminating matched relationships

It is expected that matches will last a minimum of six months, however there may be instances where one or both parties wish to terminate the relationship early. For example, where the displaced person has organised alternative accommodation, or there is an unexpected or unavoidable change of circumstances for either party.

In all circumstances, the host should notify their local authority contact of any change of circumstance. At this point, the host may wish to indicate whether they would like to be put back on the list for matching with another individual guest or family.

Changes in circumstance should be reported without delay. Under the scheme, the 'thank you' payment is only payable where you are actively hosting. Upon departure of guests, you will no longer be eligible to claim these payments.

The relationship may also terminate where you are a tenant (and the host) (assuming you have sought approval from your landlord) - but the landlord decides to provide notice meaning that you cannot provide housing for the minimum six month period.  The local authority should be notified at the earliest opportunity for alternative arrangements to be made to accommodate the guests, such as being rematched to a new host or placed in social housing where it is available.

It is possible that differences - for example parenting styles or lifestyles - become apparent, which could place strain on living arrangements. It is therefore important that people arriving from Ukraine and their host families are informed of support and advice to manage any difficulties, with the aim of avoiding breakdown.

Where difficulties arise within a matched relationship, such as but not exhaustively those referred to above,  the host and/or displaced person should contact  the relevant local authority to seek support and information on available options.

Where relationships are irreconcilable, or risks are identified to  a host or displaced person that cannot be mitigated, and as a result the guests can no longer reside at this home, the host must inform the relevant local authority immediately to make necessary arrangements.

Guests should be encouraged to also make contact directly with the relevant local authority to ensure that they are put back into the matching process and provided with suitable alternative accommodation.

Managing temporary absences

We recognise that guests may need to be temporarily absent from their sponsor accommodation for various reasons.

Before your guests’ departure, we encourage you to discuss arrangements and the likely length of absence. You might also want to discuss how they leave their room or accommodation, such as leaving belongings in a way that allows you to still use the room.

In the event that your guests are absent for more than 4 consecutive weeks (whether or not they told you that was their intention), it is your responsibility as their host to notify your local authority. This will pause the thank you payment. Failure to notify your local authority could result in further investigations to identify fraud and you may have to pay back any money when proven.

Thank you payments will be reinstated using the usual monthly payment cycle once your guest has returned and you have notified the local authority. .

You do not need to notify your local authority if your guests are absent for fewer than 4 weeks. However, any concerns should be discussed with your guests and raised with your local authority.