New data shows almost 100 visas have been granted for Ukrainian refugees to stay with hosts in Oldham, but a survey reveals hosts are in need of support from the Government to help with living costs.

Since March this year, Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion have been eligible to apply for a visa to stay in the UK as part of the Ukrainian Sponsorship Scheme.

The ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme allows people in the UK to host refugees for a minimum of six months.

As of August 2, 91 visas had been issued to those staying with a host in Oldham, 69 of which had arrived in the UK as of the day before.

Yet a new survey suggests hosts are in need of more financial help from the Government as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite.

The cost of food, energy and fuel is affecting households up and down the country and is adversely affecting those who are willing to host refugees.

Across the UK, more than 17,000 sponsors responded to the questionnaire between July 7 and July 14 – and more than 70 per cent said the crisis has impacted their ability to provide support.

Of those who said they were planning on hosting for six months or were not sure, 40 per cent said an increase in the £350 monthly payments they receive would encourage them to provide accommodation on a longer term.

The survey also revealed that many hosts have supported their guests beyond providing accommodation, and have found the experience to be positive.

More than nine in 10 hosts have helped to set up services for those staying with them and 58 per cent said they have helped with sorting school and university places for youngsters.

A further 37 per cent said they would consider hosting people fleeing from conflicts overseas again.

However, the Local Government Association said more information is needed to support those who want to help beyond the initial six-month placement period.

The membership body for local authorities said that the “thank you” payment should be increased to mitigate the burden on sponsors.

The Refugee Council, a charity which supports asylum seekers fleeing conflict, has called for more support to stop arrangements from breaking down which could leave refugees homeless.

The charity's CEO, Enver Solomon, added the cost-of-living crisis was an "additional burden" to those who have already faced significant hardship.

Refugees Minister Richard Harrington said the survey results were "testament to the goodwill the British public has shown the people of Ukraine".

He stressed that hosts will continue to receive monthly “thank you” payments for up to 12 months to help with the costs of opening up their home.

“We initially asked sponsors to host for a minimum of six months and we are working closely with councils to ensure Ukrainians have a safe place to live if they decide to move on," he added.