Ukrainian families living in the Chilterns seek new hosts.

By Christmas, many local Ukrainian guests will have been with their families for a little over 6 months – the agreed time commitment. Whilst some hosts are happy to continue into 2023, many guests are already needing to look for more permanent accommodation. But will they manage it?

The private rental market is under huge pressure, particularly in our area. Talking the other day with a local estate agent, we discovered that almost every rental on offer is snapped up within days, if not hours, with landlords able to pick and choose from several possible tenants. Using criteria such as a good credit history and an established UK employment record, it is hard for recently arrived Ukrainians to be top of the list.

So, the poster below is part of a campaign by our local support group, collaborating with Bucks Council, to find ‘second wave’ hosts to take over while guests continue to improve their English and establish themselves in employment. Unless this happens, a potential crisis is looming. If Ukrainians are unable to secure a second host or find a suitable rental soon, then they will be declared homeless and offered only B&B accommodation or worse.

Our community has done a huge amount to welcome Ukrainian families made homeless by a horrific war. And, if we may add a personal note, the last few months have been a rewarding eye-opener for us both. We have learned about a different culture and been privileged to support some vulnerable people though the toughest time of their lives. We have also made three very good friends.

All our guests have already been through so much – it would be truly tragic for them to be made homeless again. Please consider whether you are able to offer a Ukrainian family a temporary refuge, either now or after Christmas. Even if it’s a ‘maybe’, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to learn more, either at: ddennis48@outlook.com or by using the phone number on the poster – 07494 427355. David Dennis and Lesley Paton