New beginnings after near disaster - How emergency housing saved Ruslana and Illia
Ruslana and her 16-year-old son Illia are living in safety now, having been given the tools and knowledge by RMC to live independent lives after a difficult start to life in the UK
When they arrived in April 2025 under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, they were filled with cautious hope. Having fled conflict in search of safety, they believed a new beginning was possible. But just as they landed, their plans began to unravel. Their host sponsor withdrew at the last minute, leaving them without a place to stay. A temporary arrangement with friends offered brief shelter, but it was neither sustainable nor safe in the long term. Faced with the risk of rough sleeping, Ruslana acted, reaching out to RMC for help.Â
That same day, RMC was also contacted by Birmingham City Council, who fund our Homes for Ukraine project, to support the family. Recognising the urgency of their situation, RMC acted quickly, checking on their wellbeing, assessing their needs including housing situation and any safeguarding concerns. RMC returned to Birmingham City Council’s housing department and requested for a homelessness application to be completed. Thanks to our strong partnership with the council, temporary accommodation was arranged for Ruslana and Illia the same day. This rapid, coordinated response highlighted the strength of collaboration between statutory services and the voluntary sector.Â
The next day, RMC welcomed them into our offices to deliver essential support for new arrivals on the Homes for Ukraine Scheme. We provided a welcome payment, SIM cards, eVisa applications, Universal Credit application, bank account application, GP registration, NINO applications and an in-year school application for Illia.Â
Crisis becomes a new beginning
Every step brought them closer to stability. Ruslana’s determination and Illia’s resilience, combined with RMC’s support, transformed a moment of crisis into a new beginning.Â
Today, they are safe, supported, and full of hope for the future. Â
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