Support for Ukraine

Since the terrible war broke out in Ukraine, I have been overwhelmed with messages from people across Sutton expressing their shock and absolute horror at the suffering one of our European neighbours is going through. 

Watching the events unfold over the past few weeks and seeing innocent civilians, families and children fleeing their homes is absolutely heartbreaking. My thoughts go out to the Ukrainian community, those living in the UK and to those currently in Ukraine - the endurance and courage you have shown to protect your democracy is an inspiration to us all.    

So what can we do to help?

This week, the Government launched their Homes for Ukraine scheme. Anyone wanting to open their home to those fleeing the war in Ukraine can register with the government to become a sponsor. Sponsors should provide accommodation for as long as they are able, but there is a minimum expectation of 6 months. 

As a Council, we are trying to get more information about how exactly this will work and how we can support sponsors in Sutton. It appears that those Ukrainians wanting to live in the UK will need to have made contact with a host family and be in possession of a visa. Once in the UK, the Ukrainian family being hosted will then have the right to remain in the UK for up to three years. The briefing on the government scheme is here. 

People who want to help but are unable to provide accommodation can make a donation. You can do this through the Disasters Emergency Committee - funds raised here are being matched by the UK government, or you may prefer to go to the British Red Cross.  

Over the coming months, we will be working closely with local voluntary, community and faith organisations to ensure that all Ukrainian refugees arriving in our borough are given a warm welcome and all the support they need.

Thank you for everything you are doing to support the people of Ukraine in Sutton.

Слава Україні!  

Councillor Ruth Dombey, Leader of the Council