In 2025, the UK will allow Ukrainian refugees to extend their stay in the country for an additional 18 months
Great Britain has become one of the countries actively helping Ukrainians forced to leave their homes due to the full-scale Russian invasion. Since the beginning of the war, the British government has implemented a number of support programs for Ukrainian refugees seeking safe haven abroad. Thanks to this initiative, more than 300,000 Ukrainians received asylum in Great Britain, and their status was officially confirmed or extended. In February 2025, the UK Home Office will launch a new scheme that will allow Ukrainian refugees to extend their stay in the country for an additional 18 months.
New initiatives for Ukrainians in Great Britain
Ukrainian refugees in Great Britain receive not only a temporary roof over their heads, but also access to a full range of social, economic and medical services. This includes the opportunity to work, use the health care system, receive education and benefits. In February 2025, the UK Home Office will launch a new scheme that will allow Ukrainian refugees to extend their stay in the country for an additional 18 months. Under this program, Ukrainians will have the same rights as under the existing schemes: access to work, social benefits, health care and education. The application process will be as simple and accessible online as possible, allowing many families to quickly receive confirmation of their status. About this reported the government of Great Britain.
“Since the beginning of Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the UK has provided or extended asylum to more than 300,000 Ukrainians, and our support will continue for the Ukrainians who need it most.” – it is stated in the message of the government.
Support for Ukrainians: more than just shelter
Assistance to Ukrainian refugees is not limited to granting temporary protection status. The British government actively promotes the integration of Ukrainians into the new environment. This includes the organization of language courses for adults, assistance with employment, support for children in schooling and providing access to psychological assistance.
The health care system, which has become accessible to Ukrainian refugees on the same level as citizens of the country, deserves special attention. This is an important aspect for many families who need medical care after experiencing stress or as a result of hostilities.
The reality of integration
However, despite significant support from the British authorities, Ukrainian refugees face certain challenges. First of all, it is a language barrier that limits access to work and communication in society. The British government, together with voluntary organizations, is making efforts to overcome these difficulties by organizing language courses and adaptation programs.
The second important challenge is access to housing. Due to high rent prices and the limited number of places in social housing, many families face difficulties in securing a permanent place of residence.
The global context of refugee assistance
Great Britain’s assistance is part of the large-scale support provided by the international community to Ukrainians. According to the European Commission, millions of Ukrainians receive temporary protection in the countries of the European Union, in particular in Poland, Germany, Bulgaria and Romania. A third of these people are children who need special attention and care.
Discussions about the duration of the war and the need for long-term solutions for the integration of refugees are increasingly being heard in society. Great Britain demonstrates its readiness to support Ukrainians as long as necessary, adapting its programs to new challenges and providing Ukrainian families with access to the necessary resources.
Long-term perspective
More than 300,000 Ukrainians who have found refuge in Great Britain are a vivid example of international solidarity. The British government continues to work on creating conditions that will allow refugees to feel safe and secure in their new country.
And although challenges remain, including integration into a new environment, providing housing and work, Ukrainians in Britain have the opportunity to start a new chapter of their lives. The UK provides an example of how support for vulnerable groups can be combined with the development of a multicultural society, while ensuring that humanitarian values are respected.
