A NUMBER of services are available to help Ukrainian refugees in Ryedale, and their host families.

As of this month (October) North Yorkshire County Council has seen 1,300 applications from Ukrainian refugees, with 1,010 actual arrivals.

Ryedale has seen 125 applications, with 90 arrivals.

Help is available to both the refugees and their host families.

North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC) administers a thank you payment of £350 for sponsors and this can be paid for up to 12 months.

Initial funds are also provided by NYCC to guests while they wait for Universal Credit payment, should they apply.

Citizens Advice North Yorkshire provide a dedicated phone line (01748 823862), which can give general signposting and support with benefit applications.

NYCC’s adult learning service is co-ordinating English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) courses.

READ MORE: 'Where do you go from here?' Ukrainians' plight at finding homes in Ryedale

Ryedale District Council provides support for refugees to search for private rental properties and may, depending on people’s financial situation, provide rental bonds.

North Yorkshire County Council’s assistant director for policy, partnerships and communities, Neil Irving, added: “Financial support can also be provided for furnishings and household items which are required when moving into new accommodation.

“Voluntary sector networks are able to apply for funds to support with integration, social and networking opportunities for Ukrainian guests, and there are two dedicated members of county council staff in post to help with the search for employment.”