How to Welcome Refugees
How Can You Welcome Refugees to the UK
Read below about the different Community Sponsorship routes and how to take part.
Named Community Sponsorship
If you have a specific person or people in mind that you would like to sponsor to the UK, you will need to apply through the Named Sponsorship route. This is still in development, and eligibility and role requirements have not yet been confirmed by government. We expect applications for sponsors to open in 2027. Read below to find out what steps you can take now to get ready.
Communities for Afghans
Support Afghan refugees rebuild their lives in your community. You will need to form a group of 6+ people, find suitable accommodation, and provide support to the family for three years. There is no fundraising requirement. Contact one of these organisations to get started: Refugee Council, Gulab Sorkhe or The Afghan Welcome Project
Community Sponsorship via UK Resettlement Scheme
Through UKRS you can welcome refugees who have been identified and prioritised by UNHCR due to their vulnerability and urgent need. You will form a team of volunteers, secure suitable accommodation, and raise £9,000. Once approved, you will welcome a refugee family at the airport and support them through their first year in the UK, helping them access services, build connections, and settle into their new community. Find out more here
Homes for Ukraine
Hundreds of Ukrainians are still in urgent need of a sponsor. The role of a sponsor is to provide a safe and welcoming home for Ukrainians who have been displaced by war. Sponsors commit to hosting guests for a minimum of six months, offering support as they settle into life in the UK. Read government guidance. USPUK can facilitate the matching process between Ukrainians seeking safety and hosts in the UK.
What We Know So Far About the Named Sponsorship Scheme
The government has not yet published details of how the sponsorship scheme will work, or requirements.
👉 We don't know who can be sponsored.
We cannot yet confirm whether the person or people you want to welcome will be eligible under this scheme.
👉 The Requirements and Roles of Community Sponsors have not yet been published.
We cannot confirm the exact responsibilities or eligibility of Community Sponsors. However, it is likely that you will need to:
- Form a group of committed volunteers
- Raise funds for start up costs such as translators, furnishing a house, rent deposits, initial groceries, etc.
- Develop a support plan (how will you help to learn English, find work, access essential services like schools and healthcare? How will you help them to navigate and feel a sense of belonging in their new community? How will you help them apply for Universal Credit and budget for life in the UK?)
- Find suitable and affordable accommodation (we don't know what types of accommodation would be eligible in this scheme. Please do not sign any agreements - even once applications open, it will likely take a few months for people to arrive).
👉 We expect applications to open in 2027
Although this feels like a long way off, there are things that you can do now - such as fundraising, building a strong team, and developing a support plan.
👉 You will need to partner with an accredited Lead Sponsor Organisation (LSO)
LSOs are organisations that are accredited by the Home Office. They will provide support, guidance and oversight of your group. They will assess your capability and plans, and submit your application to the Home Office.
Applications to be LSOs will open in Autumn 2026 - there are not currently any approved LSOs. We will share a list of accredited LSOs as this becomes available.
We will share more information about how to get involved as it becomes available.
Sign up to the Named Sponsorship Network to be kept up to date with developments: