Host families needed in Dorset for Ukrainians

Dorset Council, which flew the flag of Ukraine at County Hall on 24 February to mark its solidarity with the people of Ukraine on the fourth anniversary of the war, is continuing to seek new host families, both to sponsor new arrivals and to support re-matching where existing hosting arrangements are coming to an end.

Since 2022, Dorset has welcomed 1,143 Ukrainians seeking safety. Of these, 712 guests remain in the county, with 175 currently living in hosted accommodation, 537 now settled in rented homes and 26 more expected to arrive in the near future.

Cllr Ryan Hope, Cabinet member for Customer, Culture and Community Engagement, said: “Four years on, the war in Ukraine continues to have a big impact on individuals and families who have been forced to leave their homes.

“Dorset’s residents have shown remarkable generosity in offering safety, stability and kindness to those arriving in our county.”

If you would like to find out more about becoming a sponsor or a host, visit: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/your-community/refugee-services/ukraine-response.