Briefing:

Homelessness among displaced Ukrainians in the UK (2025)

Summary of research findings

Following the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, the Ukraine visa schemes were created to enable displaced Ukrainians to seek protection safely. More than 200,000 people have arrived and the response should be celebrated for providing swift access to safety. 

However, there have been some challenges related to integration. One example is accessing safe, secure and affordable housing, which was explored in our recent report ‘Finding a Safe Home.’ As the conflict has continued, challenges have arisen in transitioning from original hosting arrangements to longer-term living, finding suitable work and inclusion in communities across the UK. As a result, too many Ukrainians have experienced homelessness and large numbers have spent extended periods in temporary accommodation. 

The British Red Cross has commissioned research by Professor Glen Bramley at Heriot-Watt University to explore housing and homelessness among displaced Ukrainians in the UK. The research pulls together a range of datasets to understand the extent, risks, and reasons for homelessness among this group, and projects future homelessness rates. This 2025 research is an update of our 2023 forecasting briefing: How Ukrainian refugees are finding safety in the UK.

You can read the full summary, key findings, and recommendations of this research by downloading the PDF below.