GOAT Roadtrip is a private UK travel company which is volunteering its resources to help Ukrainian refugees under the UK homes for Ukraine Scheme. We are working in collaboration with Caritas. You can visit us in person in the Caritas building in Lublin or apply remotely.
UK VISA SCHEME
The UK Visa Scheme is for any Ukrainian refugee who was living in Ukraine in January 2022 and includes:
OUR PROCESS
We temporarily cannot accept any new registrations of interest due to a lack of resources to process applications (we are a very small organisation of volunteers). We hope to open up again as soon as possible.
How many people can apply?
200,000 UK people have opened up their homes under the scheme.
How many people can I have in a group?
We take anything from individuals to families and always house them together.
What are the UK host families like?
We will give you all the information about the UK host family and the house. You will always have your own private room in the house. When we provide you with this information it is then up to you if you accept it and proceed with the application or we can match you with a different host family.
Do I have to stay in the UK for 3 years?
No. You can return to Ukraine whenever you want
Do I need to speak English?
No it is not essential.
Will there be other Ukrainians to make friends with?
Yes – we will be building a Ukrainian community in the UK so you will be in contact with other Ukrainians.
How long does the process take?
The whole process can be done in a few days. When you meet us, we can usually process your visa on the same day. You then need to wait a few days for the UK government to approve it before we can arrange your travel. If you speak to us and then need time to decide or change your mind, that is absolutely fine!
Can I go with other Ukrainian families?
Yes, we can offer multiple UK host families for multiple Ukrainian families.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, preferably an international passport. If you have a normal (non-international) passport you can still apply but there is an extra step where you have to provide biometric information at a physical location. In Poland the options are Warsaw or Rzeszow. There are options in other countries too. If you have an international passport then you do not need to visit anywhere in person.
Can I work when I am in the UK?
Yes, you have the same right to work as a British citizen. While you are looking for work you will also have access to financial benefits. The biggest potential barrier to gaining work will probably be your level of English. However, a lot of companies have already said that they will recruit Ukrainian refugees so there is likely to be work available for you.
Why are the homes in the Leeds area of the UK?
Our business is based in Leeds and because a lot of our work happens by word of mouth, we have a lot of host families in the Leeds area. This is great because not only will we build a community of Ukrainians in the area, we will also have a community of host families. Everyone knows everybody!
Is this safe?
Our safeguarding volunteers check every house and family on the scheme, if they apply through us. The government also conducts safety and security checks on the families but this can sometimes happen after you have moved in with them.
Why are British people opening up their homes?
Simply because they want to help you. The UK host family will receive £350 per month from the government to help cover some costs. In many circumstances, your host will also pay for your food. However, they are not mandated to do this.
What is it like living in Leeds/Yorkshire?
It is great! But if you want to hear it for yourself then we can put you in contact with a Ukrainian volunteer who lives in Leeds and speaks Ukrainian and English. She has been living in Leeds for a long time so can tell you about what life is like there.