Sponsor refugees to settle in the UK

Community Sponsorship enables local groups to support refugees who have already been recognised as needing international protection. Before arriving in the UK, individuals and families have undergone a formal assessment process and have been granted refugee status through recognised resettlement pathways.

Once they arrive, they have the right to live, work and build their future in the UK.

Community sponsors source housing and help families navigate everyday life, from accessing local services and education to understanding their rights and responsibilities. Just as importantly, sponsors help people form social connections, build confidence and become part of their new community.

Successful Community Sponsorship benefits everyone involved.

For refugees, it provides:

• A safe place to live and rebuild their lives
• Support to access housing, healthcare, education and employment
• Opportunities to connect with local communities
• Increased confidence and independence

For communities, it offers:

• Opportunities to make a lasting difference to people's lives
• Stronger, more connected neighbourhoods
• Greater cultural understanding and community cohesion
• A shared sense of purpose and achievement

Community Sponsorship

Community Sponsorship enables local groups to support refugees referred by UNHCR to rebuild their lives in the UK. Arrivals are additional to those resettled by local authorities under the UK Resettlement Scheme. Sponsor groups must apply and meet eligibility requirements before welcoming a family.

Find out more: Community Sponsorship Guidance

Communities for Afghans

Communities for Afghans helps people arriving through the Afghan Resettlement Programme (ARP) settle with support from local sponsor groups. Arrivals are additional to those supported by local authorities through the ARP. The scheme brings together central government, principal sponsors, local groups and councils.

Find out more: Communities for Afghans Guidance

New Safe and Legal Routes

In 2026, the UK Government announced three new sponsorship-based safe and legal routes for refugees. These include a Named Sponsorship Route, enabling community groups, charities and voluntary organisations to identify and support refugees to relocate and integrate locally. Pathways for students and workers are also being developed.

Find out more: Home Secretary announces new Safe and Legal Routes