Guest information

We have put together a welcome pack that will provide some key local information and contacts to help Ukrainian guests settle in and get to know the borough:

Can I change to the Homes for Ukraine Scheme?

If you came to the UK on the Ukraine Family Scheme, it is not possible to switch between schemes after arrival in the UK. However, where the family in the UK cannot offer accommodation, you can apply through the Homes for Ukraine scheme before arriving in the UK if there is another sponsor available.

What should I do if the relationship with my sponsor breaks down?

Please email homes.ukraine@croydon.gov.uk and we will contact you to discuss options and next steps to address the situation. 

If I am on the Ukraine Family Scheme, where can I find support?

Croydon Refugee Day Centre is a friendly, safe meeting place offering practical assistance to all refugees.

Get support if you are feeling low or struggling with your mental health.

Where can I find information about applying to schools? 

All children and young people of school age in Croydon are entitled to a school place. Information on how to apply for your child’s place is on our school admissions pages.

All children aged three and four are entitled to a free part-time early years place of 15 hours per week at a nursery, pre-school or childminder before they reach school age. For further information on how to register your child and childcare providers, see Family Space Croydon.

How does the healthcare system work?

Everyone in England is eligible to register with a GP and receive primary health care services free of charge, regardless of immigration status. 

When you arrive in Croydon, you should register with the nearest GP practice or the one your sponsor is registered with. You will be asked for proof of address and ID, but you will not be refused registration if you cannot provide these.

The National Health Service (NHS), the UK Health Security Agency and the Mayor of London have produced a helpful leaflet, in Ukrainian and English, which explains how the service works and what rights to healthcare migrants have.

How the NHS works: a guide for migrants (English) (PDF, 581KB)

How the NHS works: a guide for migrants (Ukrainian) (PDF, 470KB)

Once you are registered with a GP, they can help to arrange your first, second and booster dose Covid-19 vaccinations if you have not already had them. Covid-19 vaccinations are not compulsory but we recommend that you have them to protect yourself and others from the virus. More information about the Covid-19 vaccination is available on the NHS website.

Where can I get help improving my English?

CALAT, our adult education provider, are offering courses in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).

These courses are free for people who are settled in the UK, including those arriving under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, to gain English language skills and work towards nationally recognised qualifications.  You can join the classes and make friends in a relaxed and friendly environment, take part in fun activities and improve your English language skills. They will also help you in accessing local services, healthcare, dental and well-being, support families with children at school, and offer a social club with activities such as gardening, music and yoga

To enrol call: 020 8726 6000 ext 65790 or email: linda.gray@croydon.gov.uk.

Where can I get support to find work or training?

For help with finding employment and training, contact Croydon Works on 020 8604 7471.

Benefits enquiries

Where can I find information about housing support? 

You can find more information, help, and support on our Housing pages.

Can I get help with my income and paying my rent? 

Anyone fleeing Ukraine with a visa can apply for benefits such as universal credit, state pension credit, and housing benefit from the date they arrive. Your local Job Centre Plus will be able to help you find out which benefits you may be able to access or call 0800 328 5644 for help with universal credit.

Can I get housing and/or homelessness assistance? 

People granted leave under the Ukraine Family Scheme or the Homes for Ukraine sponsorship scheme are eligible for social housing and homelessness assistance.

If you need housing support, please complete our online self-help tool. This will provide an initial housing plan which gives some information about looking for accommodation and what help is available. You will also be able to book an appointment with the homeless triage team.  

Can I get help with my council tax? 

If you're a sponsor or a Ukrainian national with a Homes for Ukraine (HFU) visa, you can read further information about the help and support available with your council tax on Homes for Ukraine: Help with Council Tax.