HOMELINK is over-joyed to report that the service has been able to support a Ukrainian family into a permanent home following a period of traumatic loss and displacement.
The support of this family fleeing the war to access a private rental property in Lewes District is a first for HOMELINK, but may not be the last, as more families are made homeless across the country due to initial placements periods with host families coming to an end.
In this case, the family—a Mum, her teenage son and elderly mother—were asked to leave by their Lewes District host family at the end of the six-month hosted stay. The family was subsequently placed in emergency accommodation in Brighton by Lewes District Council. This was another difficult upheaval for the family who had their privately owned home and belongings destroyed during the conflict in Ukraine.
Despite this adversity, HOMELINK’s Ukrainian client dealt proactively with her circumstances. With support from her local councillor, Christine Brett, she secured a private rental property back in the Lewes District using her own savings to pay for the deposit, and an interest-free loan from HOMELINK to help with the rent in advance.
“‘Seaford for Ukraine’ recently reached out to HOMELINK because [this] Ukrainian family had found a private rental but needed a deposit urgently,” said Councillor Christine Brett.
“The quickest way to do that at the time was via HOMELINK who worked quickly to make that happen.”
In recent feedback to the team, HOMELINK’s Ukrainian client expressed her gratitude at receiving such prompt support.
“I would like to say a huge thank you! We have been in such situation that needed help and loan as soon as possible. During couple of days, we had opportunity to organise everything. We would like to recommend our Ukraine people to deal with you organisation!”
HOMELINK’s Client Manager, Shaun, who assisted the family with their loan application and supported them through the rental process has been inspired by his dealings with the family.
“From my perspective, it has been so rewarding to help this family, who have not complained once about their situation but have just got on with securing a job and a home in a country where they barely speak the language,” said Shaun.
“This lady is so resilient and determined for better things for her and her family. It’s incredible after all they have been through.”
In addition to their interest-free loan, HOMELINK has also supported the Ukrainian family with two start-up grants comprised of a £50 supermarket voucher–to help cover the cost of a first food shop—and a £100 Argos voucher to buy essential household items for their new home.