Hundreds of UK churches sign up to support Ukrainian refugees

 (Photo: Channel 4 News)

Over 500 churches have pledged to support Ukrainian refugees coming to the UK under the government's new humanitarian sponsorship route. 

The government scheme will allow Britons to invite Ukrainian refugees into their homes.

The Sanctuary Foundation is asking individuals, community groups, churches, schools and businesses to register their interest in becoming a sponsor of Ukrainians arriving in the UK. 

The Sanctuary Foundation is a partnership between charities, churches and other agencies that has been set up in response to the unfolding humanitarian disaster in Ukraine.

It is led by Dr Krish Kandiah, who has been heavily involved in Welcome Churches and Afghan Welcome, two initiatives supporting people coming to the UK from Hong Kong and Afghanistan.

The foundation's vision is for the UK to become "a sanctuary for those fleeing injustice and war". 

Individuals and organisations can get involved by welcoming a Ukrainian family to live in the local community, finding and furnishing accommodation, fundraising to financially support refugee families, and volunteering to befriend new arrivals and help them with integration.

Over 2,000 companies, churches and individuals have pledged their help so far. 

St Ebbe's Church, Oxford, is one of over 500 churches to have signed up as a sponsor.

"The Bible is clear that welcoming the stranger is part of our calling as Christians," said Rector Vaughan Roberts.

"Therefore@StEbbesChurch is delighted to pledge to be a community sponsor to support a Ukrainian family to come to the UK We urge you to pledge to sponsor a family too." 

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Global Christianity faces major challenges in 2026 despite signs of growth, new report finds
Global Christianity faces major challenges in 2026 despite signs of growth, new report finds

A new global study has highlighted fresh developments affecting Christianity worldwide, with researchers pointing to demographic shifts, persecution and urbanisation as some of the key areas of focus for church leaders.

Anxious wait for pastor prosecuted for preaching outside hospital
Anxious wait for pastor prosecuted for preaching outside hospital

A retired pastor who was prosecuted after preaching a sermon outside a hospital in Northern Ireland faces an anxious wait to find out the verdict in his case. 

Why Raye is right to choose a Bible app over Instagram
Why Raye is right to choose a Bible app over Instagram

In a world obsessed with being seen, heard and validated online, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Raye has made a refreshingly countercultural decision: stepping away from social media and leaning into Scripture instead.

Over 10,000 sign petition in support of church fighting outreach ban
Over 10,000 sign petition in support of church fighting outreach ban

The church has the support of Reform leader Nigel Farage.