The Welsh Government has announced that refugees who have fled war-torn Ukraine to live in Wales will be required to contribute to the costs of meals and laundry.
The Welsh Government stated that after five weeks, refugees will either be receiving Universal Credit, assessed as ineligible due to savings, or employed.
Further changes will see anyone who refuses “two reasonable” offers of housing face a weekly service charge of between £25 and £37, depending on the size of the household.
Almost 3,000 people have fled Russia’s illegal invasion and arrived in Wales through the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
They have been staying in welcome centres, hotels, universities, and holiday parks while they look for work and adjust to life in Wales.
According to the Welsh Government, over 500 people have now moved into longer-term housing and their own homes.
“I’m proud we’ve been able to welcome so many people here,” said Jane Hutt, minister for social justice, “and humbled that so many people are living independently in Wales.”
“I also want to thank everyone who has opened their home to provide sanctuary and safety to someone from Ukraine.
“We continue to show our support for people from Ukraine and are committed to being a Nation of Sanctuary.
“We are continuing to work with local authorities and the third sector to support the move on.
“This includes bringing forward more longer-term accommodation for everyone in housing need through our £60 million transitional accommodation capital programme.”