Unaccompanied children can come to UK under Homes for Ukraine visa scheme – Gove

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Ukrainian children will be able to come to the UK without a parent or guardian under the Homes for Ukraine visa scheme, the Government has said. “It is important we took the time to get this right – we have worked across Government and with the Ukrainian Government to find a solution to ensure we can continue offering safety to as many Ukrainians as possible while also welcoming more children into the UK.” Kitty Hamilton, from the group Vigil for Visas, which is seeking a judicial review of the Government’s policies in processing visas under the scheme, saidthe change must be swiftly implemented. “These cases now need to be fast tracked as they remain most at risk in the period before they reach their thoroughly vetted sponsor.” The Local Government Association said, while it supports plans to make it easier for children to seek sanctuary in the UK, its priority is keeping children safe. “Any system must include appropriate vetting of the people they will be staying with in advance of travel, the right support for everyone involved, and ongoing checks of children’s safety and wellbeing.” The Association of Directors of Childrens Services said it is “disappointed” that guidance for councils was not published as the change was announced.