Thank you to all hosts for your continued commitment to supporting the Homes for Ukraine scheme and the guests you welcome into your homes.
From 1 October 2025 changes will be made to thank you payment top-ups for hosts in Cornwall.
Nationally, local authorities are facing significant financial pressures, and Cornwall is no exception. These challenges mean we must carefully prioritise how we support both hosts and guests. With an increasing focus on helping people transition to longer-term housing solutions and independence.
Key changes to thank you payments
- For hosts of guests who arrived before 1 October 2025, the Council will continue to pay the monthly top-up until 31 March 2026.
- From 1 October 2025, the Council will no longer offer top-up payments above the Government’s standard £350 monthly rate for new arrivals.
- Hosts of new arrivals from 1 October will receive the standard Government thank you payment of £350 per month. This will be for the duration of their guest’s 18-month UPE visa.
- This change brings Cornwall Council’s policy in line with most local authorities across the country.
- The Government has confirmed that thank you payments will end after the 18-month extension period.
We encourage hosts who wish to continue in their role to consider switching to:
- the Rent a Room Scheme (if sharing accommodation with their guests) or
- a tenancy agreement (if the guests are in a self-contained property that is suitable for long-term letting)
We also encourage hosts and guests to discuss utility costs. This is to ensure hosts can recover appropriate bill contributions where possible.
We will notify hosts of UPE permission holders 90 days before and 30 days before thank you payments come to an end.
If you are struggling with costs and need help or support, please visit our Support for residents struggling with the cost of living page.
Independent Living Support
In 2025 and 2026 we will be providing enhanced support to help Ukrainian guests move towards independent living.
This will include one-to-one support, tailored advice, and housing guidance.
We remain committed to supporting those in need. If you have any queries, please get in contact with the Resettlement team resettlementservice@cornwall.gov.uk
Visit our Housing for Ukrainians page for more help and guidance.