Lanarkshire MSP welcomes new regulations put in place to protect Ukrainian refugees

dailyrecord.co.uk:

New checks have been put into place by the Scottish Government to protect vulnerable refugees fleeing war-torn Ukraine.New regulations have been introduced for those who choose to open their home to displaced Ukrainains in Lanarkshire.Under the new scheme, potential hosts are able to apply for expedited disclosure checks.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android The enhanced checks will offer the same level of scrutiny as the initial checks carried out for those working with both children and vulnerable adults.Sponsors will be contacted as part of the new matching service and will be guided through the disclosure application process.

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey told Lanarkshire Live : “The generosity of people who want to open their homes for Ukrainians fleeing the illegal invasion of their country is heart-warming. “We want Scotland to be a welcoming and safe haven and so ensuring the wellbeing and safety of those arriving from Ukraine, who are overwhelmingly women and children, is critical."That is why we have taken action to put in place appropriate checks for sponsors and to make sure the checks are free for those who are offering a place to stay.“Under this scheme, Disclosure Scotland will prioritise checks for volunteer hosts when they are matched so the homes are ready for any new arrivals as