Ukrainians can apply to stay longer in city

Ukrainians are now able to sign up for a scheme which allows them to remain in Peterborough for a further 18 months.

The Ukraine Permission Extension scheme (UPE) has been made available to those already granted permission to stay in the UK under other schemes, including Homes for Ukraine, the Ukraine Family Scheme or Ukraine Extension Scheme.

At a full meeting in March, Peterborough City Council revealed it had only spent half of its £3m funding for supporting Ukrainians in the city since 2022, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Alison Jones, Labour cabinet member for housing and communities, explained the money was ring-fenced and likely to be unused for the three-year period.

She noted the council would not receive any more government funding to support Ukrainian refugees, but the authority could use the remaining unspent ring-fenced funding, understood to be about £1.6m.

The council's Help scheme also offered support for Ukrainians in Peterborough.

Applications can only be made by those whose current permission has 28 days or fewer remaining until it expires.

The council warned that early applications for the scheme may not be accepted and late applications may lead to permissions being denied.

The UPE extends the offer of temporary sanctuary for Ukrainians and their eligible family members following expiration of their three-year visa.

As well as allowing the refugees to stay for another 18 months, it provides them with the same entitlements to work, study, rent and receive benefits.

After applying on the government website, as well as providing proof of identity and relevant documents, the Home Office will consider applications and make a decision within eight weeks.

Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.