Leeds Council appeals for more Ukrainian refugee hosts

The UN says almost 6.5m people have fled Ukraine since the war began

Leeds City Council has appealed for more Ukrainian refugee hosts on the second anniversary of Russia's invasion.

A council spokesperson said the city had welcomed more than 900 Ukrainians fleeing the conflict under the Homes for Ukraine scheme since the war began.

But more help was needed, said councillor Mary Harland.

Council leader James Lewis said Leeds had a "long history of offering humanitarian support".

Ms Harland, the council's executive member for communities, said the response to the Homes for Ukraine scheme in Leeds had been "truly magnificent".

"But, as the war continues into a third year and Ukrainian guests continue to arrive in the city, we need more help to house both new arrivals and those who are already here," she added.

"Hosting can be a rewarding experience for both host and guest."

Hosts could claim a tax-free payment of up to £500 per month, said Ms Harland.

Anyone interested in becoming a host could find out more information on the council's dedicated webpage for the scheme.

Mr Lewis said: "As a city, we are proud to have a long history of offering humanitarian support and I continue to be humbled and proud of the many people across the city who have opened their hearts, homes, and communities to those in need of our assistance, whether they be from Ukraine, Syria, Afghanistan or anywhere else."

Almost 6.5m refugees have fled Ukraine since the start of the conflict, according to the UN Refugee Agency.

The Lord Mayor of Leeds, councillor Al Garthwaite, signed a friendship oath with Ukraine's second city Kharkiv in December as part of a "lasting international bond" between the two cities.

Civic buildings in Leeds would be lit in blue and yellow on Saturday to mark the two-year anniversary.

A commemoration event was also due to take place at St Anne's Cathedral at 2pm.