Local families hosting Ukrainian refugees in Buckinghamshire will continue to receive additional financial support, following a decision by Buckinghamshire Council to help offset a forthcoming reduction in Government payments.

From January 2027, the monthly Government ‘thank you’ payments made to residents hosting Ukrainian guests through the Homes for Ukraine scheme will fall from £350 to £100.

In response, Buckinghamshire Council has agreed to use existing Government-funded Homes for Ukraine grant funding allocated to the authority to top up payments for sponsors. The move aims to help maintain existing hosting arrangements and provide greater financial reassurance to both host families and Ukrainian guests.

Since the launch of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, residents across Buckinghamshire have demonstrated remarkable generosity by opening their homes to people forced to flee the war in Ukraine. The Council’s decision recognises the important contribution made by these families and seeks to ensure that Ukrainian residents who have found safety in the county can continue to build stable and independent lives.

Cllr Steve Bowles, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said:

“Buckinghamshire residents have shown extraordinary kindness and generosity in supporting people displaced by the war in Ukraine.

“This funding recognises the contribution our local sponsors continue to make and will help provide stability for both sponsors and Ukrainian guests at a time of change. By using funding already provided through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, we’re able to continue supporting sponsors and guests across Buckinghamshire.

“Many residents who arrived in Buckinghamshire through the Homes for Ukraine scheme have built new lives here, becoming part of our communities, workplaces and neighbourhoods. We want them to know that support remains available and that we remain committed to helping those who have been forced to flee their homes.”

The Council says supporting vulnerable residents and helping people access the right assistance at the right time remain key priorities. Maintaining stable accommodation is an important part of promoting wellbeing, independence and integration within local communities.

The announcement also reflects Buckinghamshire Council’s continuing commitment to supporting Ukrainian residents, alongside its wider relationship with the Kyiv region.

The authority will continue working with sponsors and partner organisations to provide advice, guidance and practical support to Ukrainian residents living in Buckinghamshire, ensuring that help remains accessible when needed.

Further information

Residents can find guidance and information about available support through the Homes for Ukraine scheme on the Buckinghamshire Council website.