A WELCOMING Warwickshire couple have opened their home to four Ukrainian families – and are encouraging others to do the same.
Over the past three years, more than 1,000 Ukrainian nationals have begun a new chapter in Warwickshire, thanks to the generosity of residents who have opened their homes and hearts.
Among them are John and Dora Stoddard, a couple from Leamington, who have hosted four Ukrainian families through the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme.
John, whose own family has roots in Ukraine, said: “Dora and I have really enjoyed providing a home to all these people and helping them settle into life in our town, safe from the war in their country.
“The first family we hosted were a married couple with three daughters who have since found their own home. The second family were a couple with a one-year-old boy who lived with us for three months before relocating to Spain. The third family was a mother and her 10-year-old son—her husband had to remain in Ukraine. They stayed with us for 11 months before moving into a council flat.
“Our current guests are Oleksandr and Faina, and their daughters, Angelina, ten, and Evelina, four, who arrived in March.
“Each family brought their own story and resilience, and it’s been a privilege to support them. We would highly recommend hosting Ukrainians to anyone in Warwickshire – whether you have space for a whole family or just one adult.”
John and Dora have also witnessed the growth of a thriving Ukrainian community across Warwickshire, with regular social activities taking place in Leamington, Rugby and Stratford.
They say this growing network fosters a strong sense of inclusion and mutual support.
John Coleman, Warwickshire County Council’s director for children and families added: “We are incredibly grateful to residents like John and Dora who have welcomed Ukrainian families into their homes with such compassion and generosity. Their commitment reflects the spirit of our community. As the conflict continues, we are calling on more Warwickshire residents to come forward and offer the safety and stability that so many still urgently need.”
The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme supports both newly arrived Ukrainians and those already in the UK. All hosts receive a monthly £350 ‘thank you’ payment and may request a reasonable contribution towards household bills (but not rent).
Call 0800 408 1447 or email [email protected] for more details.
