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Be a Lead Sponsor Organisation

We need Lead Sponsor Organisations across the UK.

The new Named Community Sponsorship scheme has the potential to transform and significantly scale refugee resettlement in the UK. But it cannot happen without Lead Sponsor Organisations (LSOs).

All Community Sponsorship Groups will need to apply through an accredited LSO. By becoming a LSO, you can help create a pathway to safety for hundreds of people fleeing war and persecution, reunite families, strengthen communities, and grow a national movement of welcome.

It's an important responsibility, but it is also one of the most rewarding ways to make a lasting difference.

The Home Office have not yet published the full role and requirements of Lead Sponsor Organisations (LSOs). We will update this page when we know more.

LSOs will provide the expertise, oversight and support that sponsors need to deliver successful sponsorships.

You act as the bridge between sponsors and the Home Office, helping ensure that sponsorship arrangements are safe, well-prepared and capable of supporting refugees to rebuild their lives.

Your role helps ensure that every sponsorship is safe, effective and gives refugees the best possible start in their new community.

Although the details have not yet been published, we expect LSOs will:

  • Provide guidance, training and support to Community Sponsorship Groups (CSGs)
  • Assess CSG's plans and arrangements (e.g. funding, volunteers, support plans, accommodation).
  • Complete, submit and endorse their application to the Home Office
  • Monitor and provide ongoing oversight once refugee(s) arrive
  • Respond to safeguarding, welfare or compliance concerns
  • Act as the main point of contact between sponsors and the Home Office

All LSOs will need to complete a Government accreditation process, which demonstrates their capability to do the role.

The government has not yet provided details of which organisations will be eligible to be Lead Sponsor, or the requirements of the role - we expect further details to be available in Autumn 2026. It is likely that LSOs will need to be registered charities or CICs.

The success of Named Community Sponsorship depends on Lead Sponsorship Organisations (LSOs).

While there is considerable interest from communities across the UK in sponsoring refugees, Community Sponsorship Groups cannot apply directly to the scheme. Every group must apply through and be supported by an accredited LSO. Without enough LSOs, communities are simply unable to participate.

By becoming an LSO, your organisation can help unlock the capacity of people across the country to welcome refugees, reunite families, expand safe routes, and build stronger, more welcoming communities.

You won't be doing this alone.

Citizens UK is working with partners across the sector to support current and aspiring Lead Sponsor Organisations.

We offer:

  • Information sessions and one-to-one conversations
  • A national Lead Sponsor Network
  • Peer support and mentoring
  • Resources, templates and practical guidance

We will also be launching a modest grant scheme for potential LSOs in Autumn 2026 - details to come soon!

Whether you're ready to become a Lead Sponsor or simply exploring the opportunity, we'd love to hear from you. Contact communitysponsorship@citizensuk.org.