As young people head back to universities and colleges, Shepton Mallet residents with spare rooms are urged to consider hosting Ukrainian nationals seeking sanctuary.

Autumn often brings a quieter household as young people from Shepton Mallet return to university or college, leaving some homes with empty rooms. Rather than letting these spaces gather dust, residents might consider using them for a worthy cause.

Shepton Mallet can join the larger Somerset community in supporting Ukrainian nationals who have been displaced from their homes.

The Homes for Ukraine scheme, launched in March 2022, has seen Somerset welcome over 1,500 Ukrainians so far. Host families in the area have been instrumental in offering a safe and comfortable space for these individuals and families to start rebuilding their lives.

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities, Housing and Culture at Somerset Council, notes, "We have been incredibly heartened by the generosity of many host families to date. Particularly at this time of year, we invite more residents of Shepton Mallet who may have spare rooms to consider hosting a displaced individual or family."

"Becoming a host may seem daunting, but there is ample support available, from the matching process to ongoing support, checks and visits, and even thank you payments to hosts," adds Cllr Smith-Roberts.

Currently, around 700 Ukrainians are still living with host families in Somerset. A number of these guests are looking for new hosts as their original hosts' commitments come to an end. Generally, these individuals and families will need less initial support, having already established themselves to some extent in the UK.

Shepton Mallet residents Julie and John have been hosting two Ukrainian families since July 2022. Julie shares, "The experience has been enriching for us. The friendship and connection we've formed with these families are irreplaceable. My advice for anyone considering hosting is to take the leap; the rewards far outweigh the challenges, and there is a lot of support available."

For those interested in becoming a host, or offering other forms of support, more information can be found at Homes for Ukraine or by emailing [email protected]. If you have other resources, skills or time to offer, you can reach out at [email protected].