17/03/2022

A Ukrainian National Flag has been raised at Follaton House in South Hams, with Councillors and Officers wanting to send a message of solidarity to the besieged cities of Ukraine and to all of those affected across Europe.

Last week Councillors added their support to the joint statement issued by Devon County Council on behalf of all Local Authorities in Devon. All Devon authorities pledged to work together to support Ukrainian refugees seeking sanctuary in the UK, and condemned Russia’s actions. All have agreed to give particular support to families in Devon whose relatives in Ukraine are fleeing the conflict.

Cllr Judy Pearce, Leader of South Hams District Council said: “Among the loss of life and the destruction that we have seen in Ukraine, there have also been some truly inspiring stories of defiance, strength and courage from a nation under fire.

“It is admirable to see so many people in the UK now offering up their homes to those people fleeing the conflict.  In the South Hams there are many homes which stand vacant for large parts of the year, it would be encouraging if their owners could make them available for the refugees who desperately need our help.

“You can now do this through the Government’s Homes for Ukraine campaign and if you can offer accommodation to a Ukrainian household you can now register on the Government’s website.

“As a Council, we are still waiting for further guidance as to what role we will play in facilitating this scheme. But like many others, we want to do what we can to help now.

“In fact at the next meeting of our full council I will be asking Councillors to agree to give the Disasters Emergency Committee a grant from our reserves.  Financial support is one of the biggest ways that you can help the organisations that are providing aid. ”

With so many people across Europe wanting to provide aid and support to the people of Ukraine, it is important that we send our donations to those people who are experts in providing humanitarian aid.

Cllr Judy Pearce added: “Each day we pray that this conflict comes to an end quickly and that the people of Ukraine can begin rebuilding their lives.  Until that time comes, we want you to know that your plight has touched us all deeply and South Hams will do what we can to offer support.”

How you can support 

• The fastest way to help is to donate to a DEC appeal by donating online.  Visit https://www.dec.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal Alternatively you can call 01204 770822

• Sponsor (provide a home) for someone to live in the UK a minimum expectation of 6 months. https://homesforukraine.campaign.gov.uk/

• To make a donation towards the UN’s humanitarian work, please visit Ukrainian Humanitarian Fund UN Crisis Relief

• You can also make a donation via the Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal

• There are many other charities collecting donations, both financial and supplies such as food and clothing – the Charity Commission and Fundraising Regulator have urged the public to ‘give safely’ to registered charities helping and supporting those affected by the invasion of Ukraine. Please contact your local community groups to see who’s collecting

 Further Information 

• • If you are a resident with friends and family in Ukraine and need information or support about what is happening please contact the Ukrainian Embassy

• For information on travel advice to and from Ukraine visit UK

• Find immigration advice on temporary concessions for Ukrainian nationals applying to join a family route at UKand  https://www.gov.uk/government/news/further-support-for-ukrainians-fleeing-russia-invasion

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