USPUK Newsletter - August 2025
Dear friends,
Summer might be a time for rest for many — but for us at USPUK, the work never pauses. Every week, we’re helping Ukrainians and Afghans find safety, reunite with loved ones, and take their first steps toward rebuilding their lives in the UK.
This month, we’d love to share with you some of the moments, challenges, and good news that have kept us moving forward — from powerful stories of hope to important updates that could affect our community.
📢 Good News: UPE Will Be Extended Again
Seema Malhotra, the Minister for Migration and Citizenship, confirmed yesterday in a parliamentary debate that leave under the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) scheme, launched on 4 February 2025, will be extended beyond its initial 18 months.
In a debate in the House of Commons on Government support for Ukrainians, the Minister told MPs: "Members have asked about any further extensions to the Ukraine permission extension scheme, which we introduced in February to provide an additional 18 months of permission to stay in the UK, with continued access to work, benefits, healthcare and education, as the Prime Minister referred to in Prime Minister's questions last week. However, I confirm to the House that we will be extending the leave beyond 18 months. We are still working on the details of that and will update the House as soon as possible. That is important. I understand the comments, questions and challenges and the need to provide certainty, particularly in relation to education, which was also very much on the Home Secretary's mind."
Four Years On — Still Standing with Afghanistan
This month marks four years since the fall of Kabul — a day that altered countless lives forever. The recent data breaches affecting Afghan interpreters are a stark reminder of the dangers many still face.
At USPUK, we continue to walk alongside the Afghan community, offering practical support and solidarity. Please reach out if you are Afghan affected by the data breach and need help or know someone who does:
💙 A Safe New Beginning — Our 100th Match
As a resettlement partner under the Communities for Ukraine project, we at USPUK have our 100th matched family to arrive safely in the UK this week. This is a huge milestone for us – and a powerful reminder of what’s possible when compassion meets action.
In total, the project has helped more than 1,000 Ukrainians directly by safely resettling them in the UK and supported further 7,000 with advice and consultation. Svetlana and her 9-year-old son Dmytryk endured blackouts, air raid sirens, and the constant fear of war. In May, they finally made the brave decision to leave Ukraine. Thanks to our team — and the kindness of hosts Katherine and Martin in Birmingham — Dmytryk now plays football in the park instead of sheltering in basements.
⚠️ Thinking About Asylum? Please Read This First
We’ve seen cases where applying for asylum has blocked Ukrainians from switching to the Ukrainian Permission Extension (UPE).
Please advise your guests to get free, independent legal advice first — as war in Ukraine alone is not an automatic reason for asylum in the UK. You can check resources from Settled and OPORA before making any decisions to seek free immigration advice.
🌟 Step by Step, Hope is Growing
During Refugee Week, our caseworker Nadiia set out on a 500-mile journey — the Walk for Hope.
Her goal was to Raise £5,000 to help 50 more children escape war zones and find safety in the UK and she still needs our support.
Every step she takes brings us closer. Every pound you can give — changes a child’s future.
Thank you for staying tuned and receiving updates from USPUK - registered charity. We want to express deep gratitude for all the donors, hosts and supporters who are with us in this work.
With your help we are able to deliver crucial information and advice to displaced Ukrainians and Afghans and work daily to support their needs. Your input means a lot!
For all our Ukrainian and Afghan friends - we are deeply honored to stand by you in your journey of courage and strength. You can always reach for our help via https://www.uspuk.org/information.
With love and support,
USPUK Team
Stay tuned for updates, stories, and ways you can get involved.
Together, we can make a significant impact and support those who need it most.
All our services are free of charge, and we welcome donations to help us continue our work.