Help for Ukraine
If you're in need of help and support you can visit our dedicated webpage.
We're actively working with partners to provide immediate support and assistance when the first Ukrainians arrive in Maidstone to ensure that they have the support they need to settle safely into our communities.
Latest information
We have put together detailed guidance and advice on housing options in Maidstone for Ukrainian households and sponsors.
Government guidance for the Homes for Ukraine scheme now supports rematching under specific circumstances. Kent County Council are responsible for rematching and further information can be found on their website.
Kent County Council are also responsible for DBS checks. DBS checks are required of all sponsors under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, as well as enhanced DBS checks for hosts who will have Ukrainian children staying with them.
They're also responsible for providing wraparound support for hosts and families, for the interim payment of £200 per guest for maintenance costs and for the £350 monthly 'thank you' payment. Please visit support for Ukrainian nationals on Kent County Council's website for more information.
All accommodation must be safe and suitable, these checks will be carried out by us (Maidstone Borough Council). Please visit our support page for local help on offer.
Housing support and advice café
Come along for general support and advice at our café. Starting Monday 20 February from 10am -12pm. The drop in will take place every fortnight.
Trinity Community Hub 20 Church Street Maidstone ME17 1LYContact us
We have set up dedicated email addresses for local charities and volunteers who wish to offer help or are seeking advice. You can email us or Kent County Council.
Kent County Council have a helpline for enquiries: 03000 412424
You can also contact our customer services for general enquiries: 01622 602750.
Government schemes
There are two Government Schemes for those forced to escape Ukraine.
Homes for Ukraine
The government has set up a new scheme which allows individuals, charities, community groups and businesses in the UK to bring Ukrainians, forced to escape their homeland to safety, including those with no family ties to the UK.
Full details on the scheme and how to register your interest can be found on the government's Homes for Ukraine website.
Ukraine family scheme
The Ukraine family scheme allows family members of British nationals, UK settled persons and certain others to come to or stay in the UK.
If you're outside of the UK
Apply to the Ukraine Family Scheme
If you're in the UK
Guidance on how to apply from inside the UK will be available soon.
In the meantime, you can call the free 24/7 helpline on +44 808 164 8810 (0808 164 8810 from within the UK) for help with any questions about the scheme.
If you cannot contact UK 0808 numbers, please use +44 175 390 7510 (01753 907510 from within the UK)