Matthew and Hannah Hornsby are among those across the UK anxious to provide a safe haven for people forced to escape their country after the invasion by Russia.

The government, which has faced mounting criticism over its response to the humanitarian crisis, on Sunday unveiled details of a Homes for Ukraine scheme enabling refugees to be brought to safety even if they have no ties to Britain.

Under the sponsorship initiative, due to be rolled out this week, people will have to provide homes or a spare room, for at least six months, rent-free.

In return they will receive £350 a month from the government as a "thank you".

The Hornsby's already have a room prepared ready to welcome a family from Ukraine.

Mrs Hornsby said: "It's a moral obligation, I think for us all here to be able to do something."

Her husband said: "We've got the space to do this.

"We've got a family, we've got children, but what why would we refuse these people that are in desperate need?"

On the six-month commitment required by the scheme, Mr Hornsby added: "We would welcome people to our home for longer than that because we recognise the plight that they've come from."

Key developments

• 35 dead in Russian airstrike on Ukrainian military base near Poland
• Russia 'installs new mayor in city of Melitopol'
• Russian forces appear to be making progress in their advance on Kyiv
• Mariupol's situation is becoming critical after a 12-day blockade, officials said
• Russia warns that it now considers Western arms shipments to Ukraine 'legitimate' military targets

Until now, the visa route for people fleeing the war in Ukraine has been limited to those with family members settled in the UK.

Those offering accommodation under the sponsorship scheme will be vetted and Ukrainian applicants will undergo security checks.

A website for would-be hosts to register their interest is due to launch on Monday.

Housing Secretary Michael Gove has told Sky News tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees could come to the UK with local council getting more than £10,000 per person.

Ukrainians who are sponsored through the new humanitarian route will be able to remain in the UK for up to three years and be entitled to work, use public services and claim benefits.