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." 

News
Catholic affiliation falls across Latin America as religious 'nones' grow 
Catholic affiliation falls across Latin America as religious 'nones' grow 

But belief in God remains widespread, a new study has found.

£90,000 raised to support Spurgeon’s College students after sudden closure
£90,000 raised to support Spurgeon’s College students after sudden closure

Spurgeon’s College, one of the UK’s oldest theological institutions, closed with immediate effect in July 2025.

Iranian Christian sisters freed from federal detention in the US
Iranian Christian sisters freed from federal detention in the US

Two Iranian Christian sisters who were detained by federal authorities last month under accusations that they entered the country illegally have been freed while their cases proceed.

Assisted suicide laws suffer setbacks in England, Scotland and France
Assisted suicide laws suffer setbacks in England, Scotland and France

Campaigners in favour of medically assisted suicide in England, Scotland and France have apparently suffered setbacks that could ensure the controversial practice never comes into law.