SEVERAL visas have been issued for Ukrainian refugees to stay with Redditch residents, new figures show.

The Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, also known as Homes for Ukraine, was announced in February by the government, allowing citizens to host refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine.

Sponsors agree to offer accommodation for at least six months, with those receiving sponsorship allowed to live, work and study in the UK for up to three years.

Provisional data from the Home Office and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities shows that six visas had been issued for refugees staying with hosts based in Redditch as of Wednesday, April 6.

Visas have been issued to local authorities based on the postcode of the sponsor’s address, or of the accommodation address if the applicant is not staying with the sponsor.

Worcestershire County Council says the county is preparing to welcome nearly 500 guests as currently, just over 200 sponsors are offering to host.

A spokesperson said: “District council teams are working tirelessly to ensure that housing checks are completed as soon as possible.

“County council teams are also working hard to ensure the DBS checks needed for all Sponsor family members aged 16 and over are completed as soon as possible.

“The county council has been assured by the Department of Health and Social Care that any delays with DBS checks due to the sheer number being requested nationally, will not prevent visas from being issued by the Home Office for Ukrainian guests arriving in the county.

“As guests arrive, the county council will be working closely with Health Partners to ensure they are able to provide what support is needed.”

Welcome packs are being put together for guests and sponsors that contain a range of useful information provided by district colleagues in addition to information provided by the county council and other partners.