The Conservative Group have written to the Mayor of Bedford and Members of Parliament (MPs) who cover their wards to highlight the groups support for those who have had to flee Ukraine because of the vile invasion by Vladimir Putin.
Local MP Richard Fuller, who has raised questions in parliament asking for more support from the Government, has written back confirming that individuals, businesses, community organisations and crucially Local Authorities that are willing and able to act as a sponsor for Ukrainian refugees without family ties. There will be no limit put on how many refugees will be accepted and the UK will welcome as many Ukrainians that wish to come here for whom there are sponsors.
The Government have also announced that local authorities will receive £10,000 for each refugee welcomed, as well as offering £350 a month for households who hold Ukrainian refugees. Under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, people will be able to nominate a named individual or a family to stay with them rent-free, or in another property, for at least six months.
However, the Mayor is yet to provide a full response to our letter supporting the sponsoring of refugees by Bedford Borough Council. We hope that he will announce that he will take every possible action to sponsor Ukrainian refugees in Bedford Borough.
Conservative Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant commented “I know how generous Bedford residents are to those struggling in times of need. Like many other families, my family knows first-hand how those fleeing war rely on the support of strangers.
I am glad that the Government, is ramping up its assistance for Ukrainian refugees and was especially pleased to read that there is no limit to the number of refugees the UK will accept.”
Conservative Mayoral Candidate Cllr Tom Wootton also commented “We know that Bedford residents feel strongly about supporting those who have had to flee Ukraine due to the devastating conflict started by Vladimir Putin.
I am hopeful that the Mayor will add to the support provided Bedford by ensuring that Bedford Borough Council sponsors refugees who are fleeing, especially given the historical between Bedford and Ukraine.”
ENDS
Notes to editor
Richard Fuller MP question on supporting Ukrainian refugees: Ukrainian refugees - YouTube
Support for Ukrainian Refugees: https://www.bedfordconservatives.org.uk/news/support-ukrainian-refugees
Homes for Ukraine Scheme: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/homes-for-ukraine-scheme-launches
Councils to receive £10,000 for each Ukrainian refugee welcomed: https://www.localgov.co.uk/Councils-to-receive-10000-for-each-Ukrainian-refugee-welcomed-/53851
