The European Commission (EC) launched the Safe Homes initiative to provide targeted guidance to Member States, regional and local authorities and civil society in the organisation of private housing initiatives for those fleeing Ukraine who are in need of protection.

The initiative works to:

• support host families via a consistent communication channel for hosts and guests;
• facilitate matchmaking between hosts and those in need of homes by providing an overview of available accommodation and of those looking for accommodation;
• ensure adequate and safe accommodation by matching offers to the needs of those seeking accommodation.

A guidance document has been published, outlining considerations, key principles and good practices in private accommodation provision. A specific section is dedicated to addressing particular challenges - including those related to a lack of structures supporting hosts, matching and vetting, unsuitable accommodation, safety concerns, and the hosting of people belonging to vulnerable groups and people travelling with pets -, and information is also provided on EU funding accessible in this context.

Further information on the initiative can be found in the factsheet and guidance document attached below.

December 2022 update: 

In the margins of the High Level Forum on legal pathways to protection, the EC announced the awarding of €5.5 million to a project managed by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) that reinforces the Safe Homes initiative. The project provides a needs assessment for those in need of accommodation who are fleeing Russian aggression against Ukraine, matching them with private offers and providing guidance for potential hosts.