Freebies for Ukranian refugees

misterthrifty

Hi, I hope this is the right place to put this. We put our name down to host some Ukranian refugees, now a couple from Kiev will be welcomed here (Birmingham) within the next few days, they are a young couple who plan to find work as soon as they can so they are not relying on charity for long. However they have had to leave most of their belongings behind and can only bring a suitcase each.
We are new to this, but it seems that many UK companies are offering freebies for Ukraine refugees and we would like to make these available to our new guests. If anyone can suggest discounts or freebies that they are aware of then we can let our guests know when they arrive.

Thanks for your help.

markieteeee

One of the most amazing things they might be able to get for free are bicycles.  The Bike Project do up donated bikes and give them to refugees and asylum seekers. When you have £37 a week to live on, cycles can take transport costs out of the equation and make getting around a city affordable.  They might even be able to assist with finding a cycling buddy to help them orientate and get used to cycling in the local area.

At the moment, they'd have to apply via a referral partner (usually a charity) - the list of such partners and how to apply can be found here: https://thebikeproject.co.uk/register-for-a-bike/ 

There is the possible complication that they might not be technically classified as 'refugees' as they might visiting on a visa such as those issued via the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.  I don't think the referral partners or charities are that bothered about this distinction (it's maybe more for far right loons and Priti Patel).  But if one referral partner is, the next one might not be.

Cardew

I assume you have read all the Government documentation on line about their entitlement after arrival? Birmingham Council have a good website https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/50276/ukraine_sponsorship_scheme_homes_for_ukraine

You are best to join a local WhatsApp or Facebook group to find out the many freebies on offer locally and nationally.

Googling 'birminham ukrainian refugee Facebook' produces lots of websites.

Assuming they land at Birmingham or a major airport there could be a welcome party and the Red Cross will give them documentation to claim £50 each and a Sim card, If not you can phone the Red Cross within two weeks of their arrival.

In your area Ariva bus company offer free bus passes for 3 months.

They can use any Transport for Wales train for free. These trains run to Birmingham from an number of destinations to the west of your city. Using these trains you can get to a number of destinations in Wales(obviously) but also Manchester, Liverpool and London(via Chester)

I have been hosting seven refugees  - four adults and 3 children - and the freebies and advice available is staggering.

There is a huge amount of paperwork needed for the various agencies and you need to get on with it ASAP. Unless they speak excellent English, 'Google Translate' is essential.