In the first instance, the Homes for Ukraine team will look at possible rematching with new sponsors within the Hart area. In this instance we will encourage an informal meeting with the potential new sponsor and the family prior to the new arrangement. This is the most achievable way of securing accommodation in the short term, please contact us using our single point of contact hdchomesforukraine@hart.gov.uk
The next solution available to families will be to rent accommodation within the private sector. In general, most landlords require a five-week deposit and one month's rent in advance. This can vary significantly according to the terms that each individual landlord or estate agent will accept. Some landlords may require at least six months’ rent in advance. others may only accept a family who are working and/or have a guarantor. Homes for Ukraine can work with the family and potential landlords.
To see if a family would be entitled to any benefits when renting in the private sector, go to www.entitledto.co.uk, to go through a calculation. Choose Tenant - Private sector when working out entitlements; an estimated rental figure will need to be used if a specific property has not yet been found.
Once you know what the family household income would be, including wages, benefits, child benefit etc, it is important to work out an estimated expenditure when renting in the private sector. The household expenditure should include all priority bills such as rent, council tax, utilities bills alongside food shopping, clothing, mobile phones and all other regular expenses within the household.
There are budget calculators available to work out estimated expenses such as the one below although there are many others available online. Budget Planner: how to manage your money - MoneySavingExpert
Whilst families are still residing with sponsors, without expenses such as utilities, council tax and rent costs, it is the ideal time to save towards a deposit and rent in advance to be able to move on into the private sector. As most rental properties are unfurnished with the exception of some white goods (fridge freezer, oven) this should be taken into account when planning a household’s move on options.
If accommodation is found in the private sector but some financial assistance is required to secure the accommodation, we can work with families on a case-by-case basis to see how we are able to assist.
We would also encourage families to join the Council's Housing Register although there is a waiting list of a number of years for most households due to the demand and availability of properties through this scheme. This option cannot be relied on to resolve a family’s current housing situation. Please use this link to join the Council’s Housing Register: https://hart.homeconnections.org.uk/
Please contact us at hdchomesforukraine@hart.gov.uk should you have any questions about any of the above or you need further support.
