Thousands of refugees under threat: Scotland cancels payments to families who have taken in Ukrainians

Die Streichung von Zahlungen an Familien in Schottland, die Ukrainer aufgenommen haben, hat bei Flüchtlingen und lokalen Behörden große Besorgnis ausgelöst. Mehr als 28.000 ukrainische Frauen und Kinder könnten nach Auslaufen des Hilfsprogramms obdachlos werden. Erfahren Sie, warum die Regierung diese Entscheidung getroffen hat und welche Optionen für diejenigen bleiben, die Gefahr laufen, ihr Dach über dem Kopf zu verlieren

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In Scotland, thousands of Ukrainians may find themselves on the brink of homelessness following the British government's decision to stop monthly payments to families who provided accommodation to refugees under the Housing for Ukraine program. This was reported by the Daily Mail.

Ukrainians in Scotland will no longer receive assistance: details

Scottish families who agreed to shelter Ukrainian refugees after the start of the full-scale Russian invasion received payments of £350-£500 per month. According to official data, about 28,000 Ukrainians, mostly women and children, found refuge in Scotland.

However, the new Labour administration has announced the termination of these payments. This decision has caused a significant stir in the region: thousands of families who provided accommodation may no longer be able to support their guests without financial support from the state.

Reaction from politicians and risks for Ukrainians

Scottish Conservatives have sharply criticized the decision, calling it “heartless” and “short-sighted.” The Scottish government, in turn, has stated that it will continue to pressure London to maintain financial assistance, as its termination threatens the stability of thousands of families and vulnerable refugees.

The British Ministry of Housing reminds us that participants in the program were warned that payments would only last for 18 months, which was supposedly enough time to find alternative housing and move into independent living.

However, in reality, many Ukrainians who fled the war did not have time to find stable work, rent, or savings. As a result, their housing security is now under serious threat.

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What might happen next?

The cancellation of payments has already caused a wave of concern among local councils. Thousands of Ukrainians could find themselves homeless, and local authorities are preparing for a significant increase in applications for homeless status.

This places an additional burden on social services, which are already working under stressful conditions, and also calls into question the further integration of Ukrainians into British society.

If you or your family are in a tough spot because of changes to support programs in the UK, the immigration lawyers at Visit Ukraine are here to help. Our specialists advise on visa extensions, finding alternative residence programs, obtaining status, interacting with local councils, and protecting your rights. We work quickly, individually, and in accordance with all current requirements of UK law. Contact us — we will help you find a solution even in the most difficult circumstances.

We remind you! Poland is preparing for new rules on the employment of foreigners in 2026, which will affect Ukrainians and businesses. Read about the changes being prepared by the state, what will happen to the special law, what the risks will be for employees and employers, and how to prepare in advance.

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