BCP COUNCIL has pledged to pay an extra £250 per month to hosts of Ukrainian refugees for six months.

The Government had set thank you payments at £350 per accommodation as part of its Homes for Ukraine Scheme.

BCP Council’s move will see enhanced payments up to £600 for those that accommodate their guests over six months up to 12-months.

Councillor Karen Rampton, Portfolio Holder for People and Homes, said: “We have seen a heart-warming response from local residents to the desperate need of Ukrainian people fleeing war.

“In Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, we have 273 host households registered in the BCP area, of which 183 are now hosting Ukrainian guests.

“I am pleased to announce this extra financial support this winter to help cover the increased cost of living, and as a ‘thank you’ for their continuing support of the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

“As Defenders and Defendresses of Ukraine Day approaches, we also want to demonstrate our support for Ukraine by making their citizen’s stay in our area as comfortable as possible.”

A further festival goodwill gesture of a £50 supermarket voucher will also be issued to all sponsors at Christmas.

If required, an additional £1,000 winter payment can be applied for and applications will be processed on a case by case basis.