UK households will be paid £350 a month to house Ukrainian refugees, the government has said.

The Homes for Ukraine scheme will allow people to nominate a named individual or a family to stay with them rent-free for at least six months.

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove is due to outline further details about the scheme in Parliament today, which will be followed by the launch of a website allowing householders to express an interest in housing refugees.

Responding to announcement, Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, which represents 350 councils across England and Wales, said: “The humanitarian crisis caused by the Ukraine invasion is heart-breaking. Councils are ready to help new arrivals from Ukraine settle in the UK and to support communities who wish to offer assistance to those fleeing the devastating conflict

“Councils will be central in helping families settle into their communities and access public services, including schools, public health and other support, including access to trauma counselling.

“The government must continue to work closely with councils, the community and voluntary sector and other key local partners to co-design this sponsorship scheme so it can move at pace and scale. We look forward to seeing the full details as soon as possible.”