‘We’ll make it work’: UK community-led scheme offering hope to Ukrainian refugees

Exclusive: Communities for Ukraine aims to provide a more streamlined route for refugees seeking safety in the UK

They looked pale and exhausted as they waited for their cases - containing the few possessions they were able to pack into their car when they fled their home in Ukraine - at Luton irport's baggage reclaim.

But the smiles of relief beamed out when the family, mum, dad and their three children, stepped into arrivals hall to be greeted by a welcome banner, goody bags and the warm hugs of their host, retired teacher Cora Hall, who has opened up her Staffordshire home as part of a new refugee sponsorship programme.